Principal Research Scientist - Polymer Chemistry

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 97,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Medical coverage

Retirement plan

Sabbatical opportunities

Relocation support

Research facilities

Job summary

Placements24 client, a global leader in specialty chemicals and advanced materials, seeks a Principal Research Scientist specializing in Polymer Chemistry to join its innovation hub in Welkom, Free State. This senior role leads research from ideation to prototype, shaping next-generation polymers for high-performance applications and guiding a diverse team of scientists.

The ideal candidate has a PhD in polymer-related field, 12+ years of experience, and proven expertise in advanced

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry or related field.
• 12+ years of dedicated polymer research experience.
• Expertise in advanced polymerization techniques.
• Strong publication and presentation record.
• Experience with patent drafting is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research initiatives in polymer synthesis, characterization, and application development.
• Design and execute advanced polymerization experiments, including living polymerization techniques and controlled radical polymerization.
• Utilize polymer characterization tools (GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, rheology, microscopy) to analyze structure and properties.
• Develop novel polymer architectures and formulations for high-performance applications.
• Collaborate with product development teams to translate research into commercial products.
• Mentor junior scientists and research associates, fostering scientific excellence.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Living polymerization

Radical polymerization

Leadership

Project management

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

Rheology

Job description

About the Role Our client, a global leader in specialty chemicals and advanced materials, is seeking a distinguished Principal Research Scientist with a specialization in Polymer Chemistry to join their innovation hub in **Welkom, Free State**. This senior research position will be at the forefront of developing next-generation polymers for high-performance applications. The ideal candidate will possess profound scientific expertise, a history of impactful research contributions, and the ability to guide complex research projects from ideation through to prototype development. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of polymer science and contribute to groundbreaking technological advancements within a globally recognized organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead independent research initiatives in polymer synthesis, characterization, and application development.
• Design and execute advanced polymerization experiments, including living polymerization techniques and controlled radical polymerization.
• Utilize a comprehensive suite of polymer characterization tools (e.g., GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, rheology, microscopy) to analyze polymer structure and properties.
• Develop novel polymer architectures and formulations to meet demanding performance requirements in diverse industries.
• Collaborate with product development teams to translate research findings into commercially viable products.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and research associates, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Stay current with cutting-edge polymer science literature, patent landscape, and emerging technological trends.
• Prepare and present research findings in high-impact publications, patents, and at international scientific conferences.
• Manage research project scope, timelines, and resources effectively.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the polymer research group and the broader R&D organization.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Science, Organic Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of dedicated research experience in polymer chemistry, with a strong emphasis on synthesis and characterization.
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced polymerization techniques and polymer structure-property relationships.
• Proven ability to lead complex research projects and deliver significant scientific outcomes.
• Extensive experience with sophisticated polymer characterization instrumentation.
• Excellent scientific communication skills, evidenced by publications and presentations.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary R&D environment.
• Experience in patent drafting and prosecution is a plus.
• Passion for innovation and advancing the field of polymer science.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package with generous bonus potential.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Industry-leading retirement savings plan.
• Generous paid time off and sabbatical opportunities.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and cutting-edge research equipment.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and conference participation.
• Support for relocation to **Welkom, Free State** may be provided.