Senior Research Scientist - Material Science

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Material Science to lead design, synthesis, and characterization of novel materials for scalable applications.

The role requires a PhD and 5+ years, hands-on with SEM/TEM, XPS/FTIR, DSC/TGA, and mechanical testing; you will mentor junior researchers and collaborate with engineering teams to translate discoveries into products.

Qualifications

• PhD required in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in materials R&D.
• Proven expertise in synthesis and characterization of advanced materials such as polymers, ceramics, composites, or nanomaterials.
• Proficient with a broad range of material characterization instruments and techniques.
• Strong understanding of processing, performance evaluation, and structure–property relationships.
• Proven ability to lead projects, manage timelines, and deliver results.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with computational modeling or simulation of materials is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on design, synthesis, and characterization of novel materials.
• Utilize SEM/TEM, XPS/FTIR, DSC/TGA and mechanical testing for material analysis.
• Develop and optimize synthesis protocols for new polymers, composites, or nanomaterials.
• Investigate structure–property relationships to drive performance improvements.
• Collaborate with product development and engineering to assess scalability.
• Stay current with literature and conference developments in material science.
• Prepare detailed reports, technical docs, and contribute to patents.
• Mentor junior researchers and technicians in the materials group.
• Ensure safety and lab best practices in Kimberley.

Skills

Project leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Materials Science or related

Tools

SEM/TEM

XPS/FTIR

DSC/TGA

Mechanical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic innovation company focused on developing advanced materials, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist specializing in Material Science to join their cutting-edge laboratory in Kimberley . This role will involve leading research projects focused on the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of novel materials with unique properties. The Senior Research Scientist will be responsible for exploring new material formulations, optimizing material performance, and collaborating with engineering teams to translate laboratory discoveries into scalable products. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of material science principles, extensive experience with characterization techniques, and a proven track record of innovation and project leadership. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in material science and work within a collaborative, forward-thinking environment in Kimberley .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of research projects focused on the synthesis and characterization of novel materials.
• Utilize a wide range of material characterization techniques, including microscopy (SEM, TEM), spectroscopy (XPS, FTIR), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), and mechanical testing.
• Develop and optimize synthesis protocols for new polymers, composites, nanomaterials, or other advanced materials.
• Investigate the structure-property relationships of materials and identify opportunities for performance enhancement.
• Collaborate with product development and engineering teams to assess the suitability and scalability of new materials for specific applications.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments and trends in material science through literature review and conference participation.
• Prepare detailed research reports, technical documentation, and contribute to patent applications.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and technicians in the materials science group.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and laboratory best practices in Kimberley .

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Material Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant post-doctoral or industry experience in materials research and development.
• Demonstrated expertise in the synthesis and characterization of advanced materials (e.g., polymers, ceramics, composites, nanomaterials).
• Proficiency with a variety of material characterization instruments and techniques.
• Strong understanding of material processing, performance evaluation, and structure-property relationships.
• Proven ability to lead research projects, manage timelines, and deliver results.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Experience with computational modeling or simulation of materials is a plus for this role in Kimberley .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and a retirement plan, and ample opportunities for professional development. Employees will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment in Kimberley , and the chance to work on innovative projects with significant industry impact. We foster a collaborative and dynamic work environment that encourages creativity and scientific excellence. Join a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of material science and contributing to future technologies.