Postdoctoral Researcher - Materials Science

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

State-of-the-art facilities

Professional growth opportunities

Conference presentation support

Collaborative research environment

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Materials Science based in Richards Bay. The role focuses on experimental investigation and characterization of novel materials to develop tailored properties for industrial applications.

The successful candidate will conduct design-driven experiments, utilize SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing, and contribute to reports and publications while collaborating with a team of researchers.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Experience with synthesis and characterization of materials (polymers, ceramics, composites, metals).
• Proficiency with a range of materials characterization techniques.
• Strong understanding of structure–property relationships in materials.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to synthesize, process, and characterize advanced materials.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and correlate material properties with structure and processing conditions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research papers for publication, and presentations for scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with senior researchers on project planning, execution, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science/related field

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

Spectroscopy

Mechanical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong background in Materials Science for a challenging research project located in Richards Bay . This role is primarily lab-based, focusing on experimental investigation and characterization of novel materials. You will contribute to the development of advanced materials with tailored properties for various industrial applications. The position requires a meticulous experimentalist with excellent analytical skills and a commitment to scientific rigor. You will work within a cutting-edge research facility, collaborating with experienced scientists and engineers to push the boundaries of materials innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to synthesize, process, and characterize advanced materials.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy, and mechanical testing.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and correlate material properties with structure and processing conditions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, research papers for publication, and presentations for scientific conferences.
• Collaborate with senior researchers on project planning, execution, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience with synthesis and characterization of materials (e.g., polymers, ceramics, composites, or metals).
• Proficiency in using a range of materials characterization techniques.
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in materials.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a research team.

Benefits

• Competitive contract remuneration.
• Exposure to state-of-the‑art research facilities and equipment in Richards Bay .
• Opportunities for professional growth and networking within the scientific community.
• Support for presenting research findings at national and international conferences.
• A dynamic and collaborative research environment.