Lead Materials Scientist

Placements24; South Africa; Presencial; ZAR 900.000 - 1.700.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Competitive remuneration package

Comprehensive medical insurance

Retirement savings plan

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24, based in Gauteng, seeks a Lead Materials Scientist to guide a research team in developing and characterizing novel materials for energy storage and high-tech applications. You will set scientific direction, manage projects, and foster innovation, shaping the future of materials science.

The role demands a PhD and 7+ years in materials R&D, with leadership experience. Strong publishing, collaboration, and leadership skills are essential for success in this dynamic environment.

Formación

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related field (required).
• 7+ years of progressive materials R&D experience, with 2+ years in leadership or supervision.
• Proven track record in synthesis/characterization of polymers, composites, or nanomaterials.
• Extensive experience with SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, DSC, TGA.
• Strong understanding of processing, structure-property relationships, and failure analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, manage teams, and deliver results.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Experience with computational materials science (DFT, MD) is a plus.
• Passion for innovation and scientific excellence.

Responsabilidades

• Lead and manage a team of materials scientists and engineers in R&D of new materials.
• Oversee design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials using spectroscopy, microscopy, and thermal analysis.
• Develop and validate predictive models for material properties and performance.
• Collaborate with product development and manufacturing to ensure material integration.
• Publish and present research findings, and contribute to patents and technical reports.
• Present findings to stakeholders and at international conferences.
• Manage research budgets, equipment procurement, and lab operations.
• Stay abreast of advancements and identify new research opportunities.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Team mentoring

Research leadership

Educación

PhD in Materials Science/ Chemistry/ Physics

Herramientas

SEM

TEM

XRD

XPS

DSC

TGA

Descripción del empleo

Our client, a pioneering organization in advanced materials research, is actively seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Materials Scientist to spearhead critical research initiatives based in Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA. This pivotal role involves leading a team of dedicated researchers in the development and characterization of novel materials for various high-tech applications, including energy storage and advanced manufacturing. The successful candidate will be responsible for setting the scientific direction, managing research projects, and fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a tangible impact on the future of material science and contribute to significant technological advancements. You will be at the forefront of developing next-generation materials that address global challenges. This role demands a blend of strong theoretical knowledge, practical experimental skills, and exceptional leadership qualities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of materials scientists and engineers in the research and development of new materials.
• Oversee the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials, utilizing techniques such as spectroscopy, microscopy, and thermal analysis.
• Develop and validate predictive models for material properties and performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development and manufacturing, to ensure successful material integration.
• Author and co-author research publications, patent applications, and technical reports.
• Present research findings to internal stakeholders and at international scientific conferences.
• Manage research budgets, equipment acquisition, and laboratory operations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in materials science and identify new research opportunities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in materials research and development, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Proven track record in the synthesis and characterization of polymers, composites, or nanomaterials.
• Extensive experience with analytical techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, DSC, and TGA.
• Strong understanding of materials processing, structure-property relationships, and failure analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects, manage teams, and deliver results.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Experience with computational materials science (e.g., DFT, MD simulations) is highly desirable.
• A passion for innovation and a commitment to scientific excellence.

Benefits

• This role comes with a highly competitive remuneration package, including a performance-based bonus, comprehensive medical insurance, and a robust retirement savings plan.
• Our client provides extensive opportunities for professional development, including access to cutting-edge laboratory equipment and funding for attending leading scientific conferences.
• Join a forward-thinking organization that values scientific curiosity and rewards innovation.
• The Tembisa, Gauteng, ZA location provides access to a growing technological hub.
• Be a part of a collaborative and dynamic research community.