Principal Scientist - Materials Science & Nanotechnology

Placements24; Redmond (WA); Hybrid; USD 61,000 - 121,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive health & retirement bene

Conference attendance & training

World-class research facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead R&D in materials science and nanotechnology from our Welkom, Free State facility. The role combines hands-on materials synthesis, characterization, and device fabrication with strategic leadership across projects and external collaborations.

You will mentor junior scientists, drive publication activity, and translate discoveries into market-ready technologies while maintaining rigorous safety and ethical research standards.

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Nanotechnology, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience.
• Proven expertise in nanomaterial synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Experience leading independent research projects and managing science teams.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Proficiency with advanced characterization tools and data analysis.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of complex research projects in materials science and nanotechnology.
• Develop novel materials and fabrication processes for emerging applications.
• Characterize material properties using advanced techniques (microscopy, spectroscopy, mechanical testing).
• Oversee integration of new materials into prototype devices.
• Mentor and guide a team of scientists and engineers.
• Collaborate with product development and engineering teams for technology transfer.
• Author high-impact publications and present at international conferences.
• Manage project budgets and timelines.
• Ensure adherence to safety regulations and ethical research practices.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Nanomaterial synthesis

Research project management

Education

PhD in Materials Science / Chemical Engineering / Physics / Nanotechnology

Tools

Electron microscopy

Spectroscopy

Mechanical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced materials innovation, is seeking a Principal Scientist to drive research and development in materials science and nanotechnology. This hybrid role, based in Welkom, Free State , offers the chance to shape the future of material applications across various industries. You will lead challenging research projects, mentor junior scientists, and collaborate with internal and external partners to translate fundamental discoveries into market-ready technologies. The ideal candidate will have a deep theoretical understanding combined with practical experience in material synthesis, characterization, and device fabrication. Join our innovative team in Welkom, Free State , and contribute to groundbreaking advancements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex research projects in materials science and nanotechnology.
• Develop novel materials and fabrication processes for emerging applications.
• Characterize material properties using advanced techniques (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, mechanical testing).
• Oversee the integration of new materials into prototype devices.
• Mentor and guide a team of scientists and engineers.
• Collaborate with product development and engineering teams to ensure successful technology transfer.
• Author high-impact publications and present research at international conferences.
• Manage project budgets and timelines effectively.
• Ensure adherence to safety regulations and ethical research practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Nanotechnology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in nanomaterial synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Proven experience in leading independent research projects and managing scientific teams.
• Strong publication record in reputable peer-reviewed journals.
• Proficiency with advanced characterization tools and data analysis.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model from our Welkom, Free State facility.
• Passion for innovation and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, performance bonuses, and generous support for professional development, including conference attendance and further training.
• Employees benefit from access to world-class research facilities and a collaborative, stimulating work environment.
• This hybrid role offers a blend of on-site engagement and remote flexibility.
• The position is based in Welkom, Free State , offering a unique community setting.
• We value innovation, scientific rigor, and employee growth.