Lead Materials Scientist & R&D Leader (Polymers, Ceramics)

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Performance bonuses

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Advanced lab facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay seeks a seasoned Lead Scientist to direct materials science R&D, guiding innovation from concept to production. You will lead a team of researchers and engineers, setting the agenda and collaborating across functions to advance polymers, composites and ceramics.

This senior role requires a PhD, 8+ years of experience, and a strong publication or patent record. You will design experiments, apply advanced characterization (SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC), and mentor staff while

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics or related field.
• 8+ years progressive materials R&D experience with publications or patents.
• Proven leadership of research teams and R&D projects.
• Expertise in polymers, nanotechnology or additive manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of novel materials (polymers, composites, ceramics).
• Mentor and manage scientists and technicians in a collaborative environment.
• Design experiments for synthesis, processing and characterization.
• Use SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC to analyze material properties.
• Develop strategic research roadmaps aligned with business needs.
• Publish reports, patents and papers to disseminate findings.

Skills

Team leadership

Research strategy

Polymer chemistry

Materials characterization

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science or related

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

DSC

Job description

Placements24 in Mossel Bay seeks a seasoned Lead Scientist to direct materials science R&D, guiding innovation from concept to production. You will lead a team of researchers and engineers, setting the agenda and collaborating across functions to advance polymers, composites and ceramics.

This senior role requires a PhD, 8+ years of experience, and a strong publication or patent record. You will design experiments, apply advanced characterization (SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC), and mentor staff while