Principal Nanomaterials Scientist - Advanced Electronics

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary commensurate with experience

Health insurance

Relocation assistance

Continuous learning & development

On-site facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Nanomaterials Scientist for our research facility in Rustenburg, North West. This senior role focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel nanomaterials for next‑generation electronic applications.

You will lead a multidisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, and engineers to translate discoveries into prototypes. The ideal candidate has a PhD with 8+ years of postdoctoral or industrial experience, a strong publication record, and hands‑on

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field with specialization in nanomaterials.
• Track record of high-impact publications in relevant journals.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, and fabrication of novel nanomaterials for advanced electronic devices.
• Develop and optimize synthesis protocols to control size, shape, composition and crystallinity.
• Use TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS, AFM, and Raman to analyze material structure and properties.
• Investigate relationships between material structure, processing, and electronic performance.
• Collaborate with device engineers to integrate nanomaterials into prototypes.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians in the lab.
• Contribute to IP development and patent applications.
• Publish and present findings at journals and conferences.
• Ensure strict safety protocols in the lab.

Skills

Nanomaterials design

Synthesis & fabrication

Characterization techniques

Leadership & mentoring

Scientific writing/publication

Project management

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related

Tools

TEM

SEM

XRD

XPS

AFM

Raman spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a trailblazer in advanced materials science and nanotechnology, is looking for a highly accomplished Principal Nanomaterials Scientist to join their cutting‑edge research facility in Rustenburg, North West. This is a critical, hands‑on role focused on the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel nanomaterials for next‑generation electronic applications. You will be at the forefront of innovation, developing materials that will power future electronic devices. This position requires deep expertise in material science principles, a strong publication record, and a passion for translating scientific discovery into tangible technological advancements. Working directly within our state‑of‑the‑art laboratories, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, and engineers to overcome complex challenges and drive projects from concept to prototype. This role is essential for maintaining our client’s leadership in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, and fabrication of novel nanomaterials for advanced electronic devices.
• Develop and optimize synthesis protocols for achieving precise control over material properties (size, shape, composition, crystallinity).
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques (e.g., TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS, AFM, Raman spectroscopy) to analyze material structure and properties.
• Investigate the fundamental relationships between material structure, processing, and electronic performance.
• Collaborate closely with device engineers to integrate new nanomaterials into functional electronic prototypes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex material synthesis and characterization challenges.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians in the laboratory.
• Contribute to intellectual property development, including patent applications.
• Author and present research findings in leading scientific journals and at international conferences.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols within the laboratory environment.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field with a specialization in nanomaterials.
• Minimum of 8 years of postdoctoral or industrial research experience in nanomaterial synthesis and characterization.
• Extensive hands‑on experience with a wide range of advanced materials characterization techniques.
• Proven track record in developing novel nanomaterials with applications in electronics (e.g., semiconductors, dielectrics, conductors, sensors).
• Deep understanding of solid‑state physics, quantum mechanics, and surface chemistry.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex research projects and work effectively in a collaborative, lab‑based environment.
• Strong publication record in high‑impact journals and experience presenting at major conferences.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and a proactive approach to scientific challenges.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific report writing.
• Must be willing to work on‑site in Rustenburg, North West.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance‑based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
• Access to cutting‑edge laboratory equipment and resources.
• A stimulating work environment focused on scientific discovery and innovation.
• Potential for career advancement into leadership roles.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.