Senior Research Scientist - Polymer Chemistry

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 107,000 - 149,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist specializing in Polymer Chemistry to join our R&D team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will lead the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel polymers for diverse applications, driving innovation and contributing to next-generation materials.

You will mentor junior researchers, manage complex projects, and publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals while collaborating with engineers to translate laboratory results into real-world

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or related field with a strong polymers focus.
• 6+ years of post-PhD or industrial polymer research experience.
• Hands-on experience with polymerization techniques (free radical, condensation, living polymerization).
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D of new polymeric materials, including synthesis, modification, and formulation.
• Design experiments to study polymerization kinetics, mechanisms, and control.
• Characterize polymers using GPC/SEC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR and rheology.
• Develop structure–property relationships to guide polymer design.
• Collaborate with engineers to translate lab findings into applications.
• Troubleshoot issues related to polymer synthesis, processing, and performance.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to scientific growth of the team.
• Author technical reports, patent applications and peer‑reviewed publications.

Skills

Independent conceptualization

Analytical problem solving

Written communication

Mentoring

Education

Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry or related field

Tools

GPC/SEC

NMR

DSC

TGA

FTIR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in advanced materials, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Research Scientist specializing in Polymer Chemistry to join their dedicated R&D team in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**. This pivotal role focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel polymers for diverse applications. You will lead challenging research projects, drive innovation in polymer science, and contribute significantly to the development of next-generation materials. The ideal candidate possesses a profound understanding of polymer synthesis techniques, characterization methods, and structure-property relationships, backed by a strong publication record and demonstrated experience in leading research initiatives. This position requires a hands-on, on-site presence in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**, to facilitate laboratory experimentation and close collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. We are looking for a scientifically curious and results-oriented individual eager to make a substantial impact in polymer science.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of new polymeric materials, including synthesis, modification, and formulation.
• Design and execute experiments to investigate polymerization kinetics, mechanisms, and control.
• Characterize polymers using a range of analytical techniques, such as GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR, and rheology.
• Develop structure-property relationships to guide the design of polymers with tailored performance characteristics.
• Collaborate with engineers and product development teams to translate laboratory findings into practical applications.
• Investigate and troubleshoot issues related to polymer synthesis, processing, and performance.
• Stay abreast of advancements in polymer chemistry and related fields, identifying opportunities for innovation.
• Author high-quality technical reports, patent applications, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the scientific growth of the R&D department.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field with a strong specialization in polymers.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industrial research experience in polymer science and engineering.
• Extensive hands-on experience with various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, condensation, living polymerization).
• Proficiency in polymer characterization techniques including chromatography (GPC/SEC), spectroscopy (NMR), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), and microscopy.
• Strong understanding of polymer physics and mechanics.
• Demonstrated ability to independently conceptualize, design, and execute complex research projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, evidenced by a solid publication record.
• Experience in leading research projects and mentoring junior scientists is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund benefits, and ample opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. Employees gain access to state-of-the-art polymer synthesis and characterization facilities in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**. The company fosters a collaborative research environment focused on innovation and technological advancement. Join a team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of polymer science and contributing to impactful industrial solutions.