Principal Chemist - Polymer Synthesis

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

competitive salary

performance bonuses

premium health coverage

retirement savings plan

paid time off

professional development opportunities

training funding

attendance at international symposia

research collaborations

world-class facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Chemist in Port Elizabeth to lead polymer synthesis programs in a dynamic research division. The role focuses on developing next-generation polymers with enhanced properties and driving IP strategy.

You will mentor junior scientists and collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate lab innovations into commercial applications. Ideal candidates hold a PhD in polymer-related fields with 10+ years of experience, and possess deep knowledge of polymerization

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant field required with a strong publication/patent record.
• 10+ years hands-on polymer synthesis and characterization experience, including senior research.
• Proven expertise in multiple polymerization mechanisms and analytical methods.
• Experience leading projects and mentoring junior scientists.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills; ability to drive IP initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research on synthesis of novel polymers with targeted properties.
• Design and execute complex polymerization reactions (free radical, anionic, cationic, condensation).
• Characterize polymers using GPC, NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, SEM.
• Optimize polymerization processes for yield, purity, scalability.
• Develop structure-property relationships to guide design.
• Collaborate with product teams to translate lab work into products.
• Mentor junior chemists and document results in reports and patents.
• Ensure lab safety and compliance.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymerization techniques

Structure-property relationships

Leadership & mentoring

Analytical interpretation

Computational modeling (plus)

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry / Organic Chemistry / Materials Science

Tools

GPC

NMR

FTIR

DSC

TGA

SEM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced materials and specialty chemicals, is seeking an exceptional Principal Chemist with deep expertise in polymer synthesis to join their innovative research division in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This senior role is crucial for driving the development of next-generation polymers with enhanced properties for diverse industrial applications. You will lead challenging research initiatives, mentor junior chemists, and contribute significantly to the company's intellectual property portfolio. The ideal candidate possesses a profound understanding of polymerization mechanisms, structure-property relationships, and state-of-the-art synthetic methodologies. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of polymer science in a highly collaborative and resource-rich environment located in Port Elizabeth. Your work will directly impact product innovation and market leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects focused on the synthesis of novel polymers with targeted properties (e.g., thermal stability, mechanical strength, conductivity).
• Design and execute complex polymerization reactions using various techniques, including free radical, anionic, cationic, and condensation polymerization.
• Characterize synthesized polymers using advanced analytical techniques such as GPC, NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, and SEM.
• Investigate and optimize polymerization processes to improve yield, purity, and scalability.
• Develop structure-property relationships to guide polymer design and performance enhancement.
• Collaborate with product development teams to translate laboratory innovations into commercial applications.
• Mentor and guide junior chemists and technicians, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Author technical reports, patents, and publications in leading scientific journals.
• Ensure strict adherence to laboratory safety regulations and best practices.
• Stay updated on emerging trends and technologies in polymer chemistry and materials science.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in polymer synthesis and characterization, with a significant portion in a senior research capacity.
• Proven expertise in a wide range of polymerization techniques and mechanisms.
• In-depth knowledge of polymer analytical methods and their interpretation.
• Strong publication record and/ or patent history in the field of polymer science.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex research projects and manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a creative approach to scientific challenges.
• Superb communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey technical information effectively to diverse audiences.
• Experience with computational modeling of polymers is a plus.
• A proactive mindset and a passion for advancing polymer science.

Benefits

• competitive salary
• performance-based bonuses
• premium health coverage
• a strong retirement savings plan
• generous paid time off
• extensive opportunities for professional development
• funding for advanced training
• attendance at international symposia
• research collaborations
• world-class laboratory facilities and equipment

The working environment in Port Elizabeth is highly stimulating, encouraging innovation and scientific rigor.

Join a forward-thinking organization where your expertise in polymer synthesis will be highly valued and significantly contribute to future breakthroughs.