Principal Architect - Innovation & Research

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Bonuses & equity

Materials budget

Conferences & development

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Global collaboration

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Architect focused on Innovation & Research to lead the firm's exploration of new technologies and methods. This fully remote role supports a thought leader who bridges academic research and practical architectural delivery, with global reach beyond Kimberley.

The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D. or Master’s in Architecture/Design Research, with 12+ years in practice and a proven track record in publishing and leading projects.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Architecture, Design Research, or a related field.
• 12+ years of architectural practice with a focus on research and innovation.
• Proven track record of leading research projects and publishing work.
• Expertise in computational design, advanced materials science, AI in design, or sustainable innovation.
• Strong understanding of architectural theory, history, and design methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Portfolio showcasing innovative research and experimental design work.

Responsibilities

• Lead the firm's research and innovation agenda, identifying areas for exploration.
• Evaluate emerging technologies, materials, and construction techniques for architecture.
• Develop and test innovative design concepts, prototypes, and experimental projects.
• Collaborate with external research institutions, universities, and technology partners.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and internal sharing.
• Mentor design teams in adopting innovative approaches and tools.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the firm's design practice.
• Develop frameworks for integrating research outcomes into project delivery.
• Secure research funding and manage research budgets.
• Maintain a high level of expertise in advanced architectural theory and practice.

Skills

Leadership

Research

Computational design

AI in design

Sustainable innovation

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Architecture/Design Research

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a visionary firm dedicated to pushing the boundaries of architectural practice, is seeking a Principal Architect focused on Innovation & Research. This is a fully remote position, empowering a thought leader to explore and integrate emerging technologies, materials, and methodologies into future architectural solutions. You will lead research initiatives, foster creative experimentation, and translate groundbreaking ideas into tangible design concepts and prototypes. The role is ideal for an architect with a deep curiosity, a passion for discovery, and the ability to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application. While the operational base is historically linked to Kimberley , this role offers global reach and remote execution, demanding strategic thinking and pioneering spirit.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the firm's research and innovation agenda, identifying key areas for exploration.
• Investigate and evaluate emerging technologies, materials, and construction techniques relevant to architecture.
• Develop and test innovative design concepts, prototypes, and experimental projects.
• Collaborate with external research institutions, universities, and technology partners.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and internal knowledge sharing.
• Mentor and guide design teams in adopting innovative approaches and tools.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the firm's design practice.
• Develop frameworks for integrating research outcomes into project delivery.
• Secure research funding and manage research budgets.
• Maintain a high level of expertise in advanced architectural theory and practice.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Architecture, Design Research, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in architectural practice, with a significant portion dedicated to research, innovation, and advanced design exploration.
• Proven track record of leading research projects and publishing academic or industry-leading work.
• Expertise in areas such as computational design, advanced materials science, artificial intelligence in design, or sustainable innovation.
• Strong understanding of architectural theory, history, and design methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to foster collaboration and inspire creativity within teams.
• Experience with securing grants and managing research projects is highly desirable.
• A compelling portfolio showcasing innovative research and experimental design work.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers exceptional autonomy and flexibility, allowing you to shape your work environment. Our client provides a top-tier compensation package, including significant bonuses and equity options, alongside a generous budget for research materials, conferences, and professional development. Comprehensive health benefits and retirement plans are included. This role offers the unique opportunity to be at the forefront of architectural innovation, contributing to the evolution of the built environment, with strategic oversight from our Northern Cape origins.