Junior Scientific Researcher - Analytical Chemistry

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Entry-level salary

On-the-job training

Diverse instrumentation exposure

Professional development

Provident fund

Supportive environment

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth is seeking a Junior Scientific Researcher (Analytical Chemistry) to support senior researchers with sample preparation, instrument operation, and data collection in a dynamic R&D laboratory. You will gain hands-on experience with HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectrophotometers, learn data interpretation, and contribute to method development in a collaborative team.

This entry-level role emphasizes meticulous lab practices and a passion for scientific

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Strong understanding of analytical techniques and basic data analysis.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with analytical instrumentation is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparation of samples for various analytical tests.
• Operate and maintain analytical instruments under supervision (HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, UV-Vis).
• Record experimental data accurately in lab notebooks.
• Support quality control checks and contribute to report generation.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and collaborate with team.

Job description

About the Role Our client, a dynamic research and development laboratory, is seeking an enthusiastic Junior Scientific Researcher specializing in Analytical Chemistry to join their team in Port Elizabeth . This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career scientist eager to gain hands-on experience in a cutting-edge research environment. You will be responsible for supporting senior researchers in a variety of analytical tasks, including sample preparation, operation of analytical instrumentation, and data acquisition and preliminary analysis. This role requires a strong foundation in chemistry principles, meticulous laboratory practices, and a passion for scientific problem-solving. You will work closely with experienced professionals, learning advanced techniques and contributing to projects that span multiple industries. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and committed to scientific accuracy and quality. This position is based in our Port Elizabeth facility, offering a valuable hands-on learning experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of samples for various analytical tests.
• Operate and maintain analytical instruments such as HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectrophotometers under supervision.
• Accurately record experimental data and observations in laboratory notebooks.
• Perform routine quality control checks on analytical equipment and reagents.
• Assist in the interpretation of analytical results and contribute to report generation.
• Conduct literature searches to support research methodologies and experimental design.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety procedures and protocols.
• Collaborate effectively with team members on ongoing research projects.
• Support senior researchers in method development and validation activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Strong understanding of fundamental chemistry principles, particularly in analytical techniques.
• Previous laboratory experience, including hands-on work with analytical instrumentation, is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and safety practices.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Basic data analysis and interpretation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow instructions accurately.
• Must be willing to work full-time at our Port Elizabeth location.
• Eagerness to learn and develop new scientific skills.

Benefits

• Competitive entry-level salary.
• Comprehensive on-the-job training and mentorship.
• Exposure to a variety of analytical techniques and instrumentation.
• Opportunities for professional development and further education.
• Contribution to provident fund.
• A supportive and collaborative research environment.
• Paid annual leave.