Lead Materials Scientist

Placements24; Centurion; Vor Ort; ZAR 1.500.000 - 2.100.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Competitive salary

Healthcare benefits

Generous leave

Conference attendance

State-of-the-art lab

Retirement plan

Leadership opportunities

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 client seeks a Lead Materials Scientist to spearhead R&D in Centurion, Gauteng. You will drive the design, synthesis, and characterization of high‑performance materials across polymers, composites, ceramics, and metals, guiding projects from concept to commercialization.

You will mentor a team of scientists, collaborate with engineering and product teams to translate innovations into products, publish findings, and ensure laboratory safety.

Qualifikationen

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of hands-on materials R&D with leadership.
• Proven expertise in synthesis and characterization techniques.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Aufgaben

• Lead and manage research projects from conception to commercialization.
• Direct synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced materials.
• Develop and implement experimental techniques and analytical methods.
• Mentor a team of materials scientists and technicians.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to translate innovations into products.
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Ensure laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.

Kenntnisse

Research leadership

Materials synthesis

Characterization

Structure-property

Analytical thinking

Communication

Publications

Ausbildung

PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or related

Tools

Computational modeling

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in advanced materials technology, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Materials Scientist to spearhead their research and development efforts in Centurion, Gauteng. This crucial role will involve driving innovation in the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of novel materials. The Lead Materials Scientist will oversee research projects from conception through to commercialization, ensuring the development of high-performance materials for diverse industrial applications. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a talented team, influence strategic research directions, and contribute to significant technological advancements within Centurion, Gauteng. We are looking for a dynamic individual with a strong scientific foundation and proven leadership capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research projects focused on the development of new materials with tailored properties.
• Direct the synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced materials, including polymers, composites, ceramics, and metals.
• Develop and implement cutting-edge experimental techniques and analytical methods.
• Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to translate material innovations into functional products.
• Mentor and guide a team of materials scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Conduct thorough literature reviews and stay abreast of the latest scientific and technological advancements in materials science.
• Prepare technical reports, research proposals, and patent applications.
• Present research findings at internal meetings, technical reviews, and external scientific conferences.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices in the laboratory environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in materials research and development, with demonstrated leadership experience.
• Expertise in materials synthesis, characterization techniques (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, diffraction), and structure-property relationships.
• Proven ability to manage complex research projects, including budget and resource allocation.
• Strong understanding of polymer science, composite materials, or metallurgy.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with computational materials modeling is an advantage.
• Demonstrated success in publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at international conferences is expected for this role in Centurion, Gauteng.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with potential for annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits including medical and dental coverage.
• Generous annual leave and public holiday allowance.
• Opportunities for professional growth, attending industry conferences, and further training.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and facilities.
• A stimulating and collaborative research environment.
• Contribution to a retirement fund.
• Potential for leadership within a growing R&D department.