Postdoctoral Researcher - Nanomaterials Synthesis and Characterization

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive health benefits

State-of-the-art facilities

Professional growth & conference trips

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Centurion, Gauteng. This hands-on role focuses on synthesis, characterization, and application of novel nanomaterials for electronics, energy, and medicine. You will design and execute experiments, analyze results, and contribute to publications and patents.

The role emphasizes meticulous record-keeping, collaboration, and safety. A PhD in a relevant field, plus experience with SEM/TEM/XRD and related techniques, is required.

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Nanotechnology, or related field.
• Hands-on experience in nanomaterial synthesis techniques.
• Proficiency with advanced characterization instruments (SEM, TEM, XRD, etc.).
• Strong understanding of structure–property–performance relationships.
• Proven ability to conduct independent research and publish in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Excellent laboratory skills and meticulous record-keeping.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a research team.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize nanomaterials using techniques such as chemical vapor deposition, sol-gel, and hydrothermal methods.
• Characterize materials with SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy.
• Investigate properties and performance in relevant device architectures.
• Collaborate with team on project design, execution, and data interpretation.
• Maintain detailed lab notebooks and write technical reports and manuscripts.
• Present findings at group meetings and conferences.
• Ensure strict safety protocols and contribute to IP development and grant writing.

Skills

Nanomaterial synthesis

Characterization techniques

SEM/TEM/XRD/XPS

Structure–property relationships

Independent research

Laboratory skills

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Written & verbal communication

Experimental design

Education

PhD in Materials Science

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

XPS

FTIR

Raman

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join their dynamic research team in Centurion, Gauteng . This position focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and application of novel nanomaterials for advanced technological applications. You will play a critical role in designing and executing experiments, analyzing results, and contributing to high-impact publications and patents. This is a hands-on laboratory-based role requiring meticulous attention to detail and a strong understanding of materials science principles. The successful candidate will work within a collaborative environment, contributing to projects aimed at developing next-generation materials for sectors including electronics, energy, and medicine. We are committed to fostering scientific excellence and providing our researchers with the resources necessary to achieve breakthrough discoveries.

Key Responsibilities

• Synthesize various types of nanomaterials using advanced techniques (e.g., chemical vapor deposition, sol-gel methods, hydrothermal synthesis).
• Characterize nanomaterials using a range of analytical techniques, including SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy.
• Investigate the properties and performance of synthesized nanomaterials in relevant device architectures.
• Collaborate with team members on project design, execution, and data interpretation.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and prepare technical reports and research manuscripts.
• Present research findings at internal group meetings and potentially at scientific conferences.
• Ensure compliance with all laboratory safety protocols and procedures.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and assist in grant writing efforts.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Nanotechnology, or a closely related field.
• Proven hands-on experience in nanomaterial synthesis techniques.
• Proficiency in operating and interpreting data from advanced characterization instruments (SEM, TEM, XRD, etc.).
• Strong understanding of the relationship between material structure, properties, and performance.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent laboratory skills and meticulous record-keeping.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a research team in a laboratory setting.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Experience in specific application areas (e.g., catalysis, sensors, energy storage) is a plus.

Benefits

• This postdoctoral position offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive health benefits.
• Access to state-of-the-
  art laboratory facilities and equipment is provided.
• Opportunities for professional growth, including training and conference attendance, are encouraged.
• The role includes paid time off and opportunities for career progression within our research organization.
• We offer a stimulating work environment focused on scientific innovation and discovery.