Lead Materials Scientist — Drive Next-Gen Materials & Innovation

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Comprehensive medical insurance

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

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.

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Team mentoring

Research leadership

Education

PhD in Materials Science/ Chemistry/ Physics

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

XPS

DSC

TGA

Job description

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.