Lead Research Scientist - Nanotechnology

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Professional development funding

Sabbatical programs

Generous paid time off

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng seeks a Lead Research Scientist in Nanotechnology to drive innovative nanomaterials research, lead a research team, and secure funding for ambitious projects. You will shape the program, collaborate with academic and industry partners, and publish in top journals.

The role demands a PhD with 8+ years in nanotech, strong leadership, and a track record of advancing nanomaterials to practical applications.

Qualifications

• PhD in a related field with nanotech focus.
• At least 8 years post-doctoral nanotech research with leadership.
• Expert in nanomaterial synthesis and characterization techniques.
• Experience fabricating/testing nano-devices.
• Proven grant funding success.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Strong publication record and international presentations.
• Ability to foster collaborative research environment.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific computing.

Responsibilities

• Lead nanotechnology research projects on nanomaterials synthesis, characterization, device fabrication.
• Mentor postdocs, grads, and research staff.
• Develop strategies to meet project goals and advance understanding.
• Secure external funding via grants.
• Collaborate with academic and industry partners for commercialization.
• Publish findings and present at international conferences.
• Oversee equipment procurement and maintenance.
• Ensure safety and ethical research practices.
• Contribute to strategic direction and growth of the group.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Scientific communication

Collaboration

Data analysis

Grant writing

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering with nanotech focus

Tools

TEM

SEM

AFM

XRD

Spectroscopy

CVD

PVD

Sol-gel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge research institute located in Benoni, Gauteng , is seeking an innovative and experienced Lead Research Scientist in Nanotechnology. This leadership position will drive novel research initiatives focused on the design, synthesis, and application of nanomaterials for advanced technological solutions. You will lead a team of researchers, secure research funding, and collaborate with industry partners to translate discoveries into practical applications. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of nanotechnology within a dynamic and well-resourced research environment. We are looking for a visionary leader with a proven track record in nanotechnology research, strong project management skills, and a passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and direct research projects in the field of nanotechnology, focusing on areas such as nanomaterial synthesis, characterization, and device fabrication.
• Manage and mentor a team of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and research assistants.
• Develop and implement innovative research strategies to achieve project goals and advance scientific understanding.
• Secure external funding through grant applications and proposals.
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners to explore commercialization pathways for new technologies.
• Publish high-impact research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
• Oversee the acquisition and maintenance of advanced nanotechnology research equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and ethical research practices.
• Contribute to the strategic direction and growth of the nanotechnology research group.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or a related field with a strong focus on nanotechnology.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in nanotechnology, with a demonstrated progression in leadership responsibilities.
• Proven expertise in nanomaterial synthesis (e.g., CVD, PVD, sol-gel, top-down methods) and characterization techniques (e.g., TEM, SEM, AFM, XRD, spectroscopy).
• Experience in fabricating and testing nano-devices or systems.
• Demonstrated success in securing research funding through competitive grant applications.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong publication record in high-impact journals and experience presenting at international forums.
• Ability to foster a collaborative and productive research environment.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific computing.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional compensation package, including a competitive base salary, significant performance bonuses, and potential for equity participation.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a robust retirement savings plan, are provided.
• Employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, including funding for conference attendance, specialized training, and sabbatical programs.
• Our client is committed to work-life balance and offers generous paid time off.
• This role provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and a stimulating, interdisciplinary research environment.