Viwe Notole | Augmented Analytics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Viwe Notole | Augmented Analytics | Best Researcher Award

University of the Witwatersrand | South Africa

Mr. Viwe Notole is an emerging geoscientist and data analyst whose academic and professional journey reflects a strong dedication to Earth sciences, mining, and geometallurgy. With a foundation built through advanced studies at the University of Fort Hare, University of Johannesburg, and the University of the Witwatersrand, he has developed expertise across geology, mineralogy, geostatistics, and machine learning applications in geosciences. His career aspiration is to contribute meaningfully to the mining and geoscience sectors through innovative research, data-driven approaches, and applied geological solutions that support both industry development and sustainable resource management.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education

Mr. Notole has pursued a comprehensive academic trajectory in geology and mineral sciences. He began his studies with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and Chemistry at the University of Fort Hare, where he built the scientific foundation for his career. Advancing further, he completed a B.Sc. Honours in Geology at the University of Johannesburg, refining his technical and analytical skills in applied geosciences. His passion for mineralogy and mining processes led him to the University of the Witwatersrand, where he obtained a Master of Science in Economic Geology with research focused on the mineralogy and processing characteristics of the Elsburg Reefs in the South Deep Gold Mine of South Africa. Currently, he is a doctoral candidate in the field of Geometallurgy at the University of the Witwatersrand, where his research integrates advanced mineral characterization, geostatistics, and metallurgical evaluation to optimize mineral recovery and processing techniques.

Experience

Mr. Notole’s professional experience reflects a blend of field geology, laboratory-based mineral analysis, and applied data analytics. At Umvoto Africa in Cape Town, he worked as a Junior Geologist where he contributed to geological and hydrogeological projects through data acquisition, processing, and interpretation. His responsibilities included supervising borehole drilling and test pumping, conducting geotechnical site investigations, supporting GIS-related tasks, and performing data analysis and visualization for project outcomes. He later joined Mintek, a leading mineral research organization in Randburg, as a Mineralogist Intern. There, he honed his technical skills in mineral characterization using advanced techniques such as X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and QEMSCAN technology. These roles equipped him with a strong interdisciplinary skillset that spans mineral exploration, hydrogeology, mineral processing, and data science applications in the mining industry.

Research Interest

His research interests are primarily centered on economic geology, geometallurgy, and the integration of data analytics into mineral processing. Mr. Notole focuses on investigating the mineralogical and processing characteristics of gold-bearing reefs, with the aim of improving mineral recovery processes. His interests extend to diagnostic leaching, mineral characterization techniques, geostatistical modeling, and the application of machine learning to predict metallurgical performance. By combining traditional geological expertise with modern computational methods, he aims to bridge the gap between field-based geological sciences and advanced data-driven resource optimization. He is particularly passionate about exploring environmentally friendly processing alternatives, such as glycine-based leaching, to support sustainable mining practices.

Awards and Achievements

Among his academic accomplishments, Mr. Notole was formally admitted to the degree of Master of Science in Economic Geology by the University of the Witwatersrand, marking a significant milestone in his scholarly journey. His upcoming publications reflect his commitment to advancing research in geometallurgy, with studies exploring predictive data analytics for gold recovery and innovative leaching techniques using glycine and potassium permanganate. These contributions highlight his role as a young researcher actively pushing the boundaries of mineral processing technologies and sustainable mining practices.

Publication

(2025). “Investigating mineral composition of PGE low-grade ore in Bushveld Igneous Complex, South Africa” in Minerals Engineering.

Conclusion

Mr. Viwe Notole exemplifies the new generation of geoscientists who combine deep geological knowledge with data-driven approaches to solve contemporary challenges in mining and resource management. His academic background, professional experience, and active research contributions position him as a promising figure in the fields of geometallurgy, mineral processing, and applied geosciences. Driven by innovation, sustainability, and the pursuit of scientific excellence, he continues to advance his career with the vision of making a lasting impact on the mining industry and the broader geoscientific community.

Dércio José | Best Researcher Award | Geoscience (Petroleum Geology)

Dércio José | Best Researcher Award Winner 2023  🏆

Mr Dércio José : Geoscience (Petroleum Geology)

Congratulations to Mr. Dércio José, Geoscientist specializing in Petroleum Geology, on being awarded the Best Researcher Award at the International Research Data Analysis Excellence Awards. This accolade is a testament to your outstanding contributions and excellence in the field. Your dedication to advancing knowledge and excellence in research is truly commendable. Well done!

Professional profile:

Early Academic Pursuits:

Dércio Levy embarked on his academic journey by earning a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Eduardo Mondlane University in 2012. During this period, he not only excelled academically but also actively contributed as a tutor for undergraduate students, focusing on disciplines such as Structural Geology and Aerial Image Mapping. His commitment to education was further demonstrated through participation in integrated scientific forums organized by various universities worldwide.

In 2015-2018, he pursued a Master of Science in Petroleum Geology at Eduardo Mondlane University, solidifying his expertise in the geological aspects of the petroleum industry.

Professional Endeavors:

Dércio has a distinguished professional background, particularly in the oil and gas sector, spanning over a decade. His journey with Empresa Nacional de Hidrocarbonetos, E.P. (ENH) began in 2013, where he assumed various roles, ranging from a Geoscientist to mid-level management positions like Technical Team Lead and Head of Department. His focus has predominantly been on projects in Mozambique's sedimentary basin, both onshore and offshore, during the Exploration and Development phases.

Before joining ENH, Dércio served as Geoscientist & Head of Basin Evaluation Department at Rio Tinto Coal Mozambique (2012-2013). Here, he led the Gas Desorption laboratory, supervised wellsite operations, and played a pivotal role in core sample description and coal sample collection for desorption tests.

Contributions and Research Focus:

Dércio's research and professional contributions are underscored by his recently published scientific paper, "Tectonics and Evolution of the Palmeiras and XaiXai Grabens, Offshore Southern Mozambique." This work delves into the complex geological processes shaping the offshore region, showcasing his expertise in basin evaluation.

His involvement in petrotechnical training courses globally, covering disciplines from Geology and Geophysics to Petroleum Economics, illustrates a commitment to continuous learning and staying abreast of industry advancements.

Accolades and Recognition:

While specific accolades are not mentioned, Dércio's progression from technical roles to leadership positions within a prominent organization like ENH suggests recognition of his skills, leadership, and contributions to the field.

Impact and Influence:

Dércio Levy's influence is evident through his leadership roles, technical contributions, and the dissemination of knowledge through scientific publications and teaching. His work has likely contributed to the broader understanding of the geology of the Mozambican sedimentary basin and its implications for oil and gas exploration and development.

Legacy and Future Contributions:

Dércio's legacy is shaping up as that of a dedicated geoscientist and leader in the oil and gas sector. His recent publication and extensive experience position him to continue making significant contributions to the field, potentially influencing the trajectory of exploration and development in Mozambique and beyond.

As Dércio Levy moves forward in his career, it is anticipated that he will continue leaving an indelible mark on the industry through his research, leadership, and commitment to advancing our understanding of geological processes in the context of oil and gas exploration.

Notable Publication: