Principal Materials Scientist - Advanced Polymers

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Performance-based bonuses

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plan

Relocation assistance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Materials Scientist in Rustenburg to lead R&D on next-generation polymer systems. You will guide synthesis, characterization, and processing, partnering with product teams to translate discoveries into scalable innovations.

The role demands a PhD and 8+ years in polymer R&D, with proven leadership, IP generation, and publication experience. Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and relocation support are offered.

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in polymer R&D, with emphasis on synthesis and characterization.
• Expertise in advanced polymer synthesis techniques (controlled radical, condensation).
• Proficiency in material characterization methods (GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, tensile testing, microscopy).
• Experience in polymer processing techniques (extrusion, injection molding, film casting).
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymers.
• Excellent leadership, project management and communication skills.
• Track record of innovation including patents and peer‑reviewed publications.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, synthesis, and characterization of novel advanced polymer systems.
• Oversee development and optimization of polymer processing to meet performance targets.
• Analyze material properties—mechanical, thermal, electrical, chemical resistance.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to define material requirements.
• Manage research projects with resource planning and risk assessment.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers, fostering innovation.
• Authorize patents and high-impact publications detailing discoveries.
• Present findings and proposals to stakeholders and partners.
• Stay abreast of cutting-edge polymer science developments.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Characterization

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Education

PhD in Materials Science/Polymer Chemistry/related

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

Microscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in materials science based in Rustenburg, North West , is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Materials Scientist specializing in Advanced Polymers. This critical role will drive the research and development of next-generation polymeric materials for demanding industrial applications. You will lead strategic research projects, mentor a team of scientists and engineers, and contribute to intellectual property development. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on product innovation and technological advancement within a highly respected research organization. We are looking for a candidate with a deep theoretical understanding and hands-on expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing, coupled with a passion for translating scientific breakthroughs into tangible solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel advanced polymer systems.
• Oversee the development and optimization of polymer processing techniques to meet performance targets.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of material properties, including mechanical, thermal, electrical, and chemical resistance.
• Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to define material requirements and guide application development.
• Manage research projects, including resource allocation, timeline management, and risk assessment.
• Mentor junior scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence.
• Author patents and high-impact scientific publications detailing novel discoveries.
• Present research findings and technical proposals to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Stay abreast of cutting-edge developments in polymer science and related fields.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in polymer research and development, with a strong focus on synthesis and characterization.
• Proven expertise in advanced polymer synthesis techniques (e.g., controlled radical polymerization, condensation polymerization).
• Proficiency in a wide range of material characterization methods (e.g., GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, tensile testing, microscopy).
• Demonstrated experience in polymer processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding, film casting).
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymers.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Track record of innovation, including patents and peer-reviewed publications.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, reflecting the seniority and impact of this role, plus comprehensive performance-based bonuses. Employees receive an excellent benefits package, including top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement plan, and paid time off. We invest in our employees' growth through extensive professional development opportunities, including access to conferences and advanced training. Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates. Join a world-class facility with state-of-the-art equipment and a collaborative, science-driven culture.