Catalysis Research Engineer

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Access to state-of-the-art lab

Conference presentation opportunities

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Catalysis Research Engineer to advance catalyst development for industrial applications. The role combines remote research with hands-on work in our Kimberley facilities, leveraging cutting-edge catalyst synthesis and characterization techniques.

Applicants should hold a PhD in a related field with 7+ years of post-doctoral catalysis experience, and demonstrate strong publication records and collaboration skills in a hybrid research environment.

Qualifications

• PhD with catalysis specialization; 7+ years post-doctoral catalysis research.
• Proven ability in catalyst synthesis and comprehensive characterization.
• Strong publication record and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize novel catalysts for target reactions.
• Assess catalyst performance using analytical techniques and reactor studies.
• Optimize formulations and reaction conditions for activity and selectivity.
• Conduct mechanistic studies on catalyst behavior and deactivation pathways.
• Collaborate with materials scientists to develop supports and precursors.
• Scale-up catalyst preparation from lab to pilot scale.
• Analyze data, build models, and present findings in reports/publications.
• Maintain rigorous laboratory safety and documentation.

Skills

Catalysis expertise

Experimental design

Publication track record

Data interpretation

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Independent work

Collaborative teamwork

Project management

Problem solving

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or Materials Science

Tools

XRD

TEM

BET

XPS

GC-MS

HPLC

ICP-OES

Catalyst synthesis methods (impregnation, co-precipitation, sol-gel)

Fixed-bed and slurry reactors

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering research institution focused on advanced materials and chemical processes, is seeking a highly skilled Catalysis Research Engineer . This contract position offers a unique opportunity to delve into the cutting edge of catalytic science, developing and evaluating novel catalysts for a range of industrial applications. Operating under a hybrid model, you will have the flexibility to conduct significant research remotely while collaborating closely with our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA . We are looking for an individual with a strong background in heterogeneous or homogeneous catalysis, excellent experimental design skills, and a passion for innovation. This role is ideal for a seasoned researcher eager to make a significant contribution to catalyst development and application. You will play a key role in advancing our client's research objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize novel catalysts for specific chemical reactions.
• Evaluate catalyst performance using various analytical techniques and reactor systems.
• Optimize catalyst formulations and reaction conditions to maximize activity, selectivity, and stability.
• Conduct detailed mechanistic studies to understand catalyst behavior and deactivation pathways.
• Collaborate with materials scientists and chemists to develop advanced catalyst supports and precursors.
• Scale-up catalyst preparation methods from laboratory to pilot scale.
• Interpret experimental data, develop theoretical models, and present findings in technical reports and publications.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in catalysis research and relevant industrial applications.
• Manage research projects, including planning, execution, and resource allocation.
• Ensure laboratory safety protocols are strictly followed.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field with a specialization in catalysis.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience in catalysis, with a strong publication record.
• Proven expertise in catalyst synthesis techniques (e.g., impregnation, co-precipitation, sol-gel) and characterization methods (e.g., XRD, TEM, BET, XPS).
• Hands-on experience with various reactor types (e.g., fixed-bed, slurry) and analytical instrumentation (e.g., GC-MS, HPLC, ICP-OES).
• Strong understanding of surface science, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Experience with computational modeling of catalytic processes is advantageous.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid research environment.
• Project management skills are beneficial.

Benefits

• This contractor role offers a highly competitive remuneration package, with an annual rate equivalent to ZAR , commensurate with experience.
• The role utilizes a hybrid work model, balancing remote research with on-site work at our facilities near Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA .
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and research facilities is provided.
• Opportunities for presenting research at international conferences may be available.
• This role offers significant intellectual stimulation and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements.
• Professional development support is available.