Lead Polymer Research Scientist — Drive Innovation & Teams

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 850,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary & bonus

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Retirement savings plan

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Research Scientist to guide high-level polymer chemistry research in Mahikeng. You will lead a skilled team, drive projects from concept to implementation, and push the boundaries of polymer science in a state-of-the-art facility.

You will develop and execute strategic plans, oversee advanced characterization, and collaborate with product development to translate discoveries into commercial solutions.

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Organic Chemistry, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive research experience in polymer chemistry with a proven track record of innovation.
• Demonstrated experience in leading research projects and managing scientific teams.
• Expertise in polymerization techniques and polymer characterization methods.
• Strong understanding of structure–property relationships in polymers.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead research initiatives in polymer synthesis, modification, and processing.
• Direct and mentor a team of polymer chemists and technicians.
• Develop and execute strategic research plans to achieve project goals and business objectives.
• Characterize polymers using techniques such as GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, and rheology.
• Collaborate with product development and engineering teams to translate research findings into commercial applications.
• Authorize patents, publications, and technical reports, and present findings internally and externally.

Skills

Leadership

Polymer chemistry

Mentoring

Communication

Strategic planning

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Research Scientist to guide high-level polymer chemistry research in Mahikeng. You will lead a skilled team, drive projects from concept to implementation, and push the boundaries of polymer science in a state-of-the-art facility.

You will develop and execute strategic plans, oversee advanced characterization, and collaborate with product development to translate discoveries into commercial solutions.