Principal Research Scientist - Nanomaterials

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 102,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and retirement plans

Conference travel

Professional development

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Principal Research Scientist in Kimberley, SA, to lead the design, synthesis, and application of novel nanomaterials within a premier research institute. You will guide strategic projects and mentor junior scientists.

Join a collaborative team focused on electronics, energy, and medicine, with access to state-of-the-art facilities. The role emphasizes leadership, high-impact publications, and securing research funding through grants.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Nanotechnology, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience, with a strong track record in nanomaterials synthesis and characterization.
• Hands-on experience with a wide range of nanomaterial synthesis techniques and advanced characterization methods.
• Demonstrated expertise in understanding structure-property relationships in nanomaterials.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and manage complex scientific projects.
• Excellent scientific writing and presentation skills with a strong publication record in top-tier journals.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to foster collaborative research environments.
• Experience in seeking and securing research grants is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development initiatives in the synthesis and application of novel nanomaterials.
• Design and conduct experiments for the precise control of nanoparticle size, shape, and composition.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques (e.g., TEM, SEM, XRD, AFM, XPS) to analyze material properties.
• Explore and develop applications of nanomaterials in areas such as catalysis, drug delivery, sensors, and energy storage.
• Supervise and mentor a team of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and research assistants.
• Write high-impact scientific publications and present research findings at international conferences.
• Manage research projects, including budget, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to foster interdisciplinary research.
• Contribute to securing research funding through grant proposals.

Skills

Nanomaterials synthesis

Advanced characterization

Leadership & mentorship

Grant writing

Publications track record

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Nanotechnology or related field

Tools

TEM

SEM

XRD

AFM

XPS

Computational modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned research institute, is seeking an innovative Principal Research Scientist specializing in Nanomaterials to join their advanced materials division. This senior role, based in Kimberley, Northern Cape, will focus on the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of novel nanomaterials for diverse technological fields, including electronics, energy, and medicine. You will lead cutting-edge research projects, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to strategic research planning. The ideal candidate possesses a deep theoretical understanding and extensive practical experience in nanoscience and materials science, with a strong publication record and a proven ability to drive innovation. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of materials science within a leading research organization committed to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. We are looking for a visionary leader to join our collaborative team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development initiatives in the synthesis and application of novel nanomaterials.
• Design and conduct experiments for the precise control of nanoparticle size, shape, and composition.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques (e.g., TEM, SEM, XRD, AFM, XPS) to analyze material properties.
• Explore and develop applications of nanomaterials in areas such as catalysis, drug delivery, sensors, and energy storage.
• Supervise and mentor a team of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and research assistants.
• Write high-impact scientific publications and present research findings at international conferences.
• Manage research projects, including budget, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with internal and external partners to foster interdisciplinary research.
• Contribute to securing research funding through grant proposals.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Nanotechnology, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience, with a strong track record in nanomaterials synthesis and characterization.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of nanomaterial synthesis techniques and advanced characterization methods.
• Demonstrated expertise in understanding structure-property relationships in nanomaterials.
• Proven ability to lead research teams and manage complex scientific projects.
• Excellent scientific writing and presentation skills, with a strong publication record in top-tier journals.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to foster collaborative research environments.
• Experience in seeking and securing research grants is highly desirable.
• Proficiency with computational modeling and simulation tools related to materials science is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health and retirement plans, and generous support for professional development, including conference travel and training opportunities.
• This role is based in our state-of-the-art research facilities in Kimberley, Northern Cape, and offers a hybrid work arrangement to support work-life balance.
• We provide a stimulating and collaborative research environment with access to cutting-edge equipment, fostering innovation and career advancement.