Principal Nanotechnology Research Scientist — Lead Innovation

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus structure

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist to lead a Nanotechnology research group in Sandton. You will define strategy, mentor scientists, and drive discovery of novel nanomaterials for electronics, medicine, and energy.

You will secure external funding, manage budgets, and collaborate across disciplines, while translating research into impactful technologies and publishing findings at international forums.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field with a track record in nanotechnology research.
• 10+ years of progressive research experience in nanotechnology.
• Expertise in nanomaterial synthesis and characterization (TEM/SEM/AFM/XRD).
• Proven ability to secure external funding and manage budgets.
• Strong leadership and multidisciplinary team experience.

Responsibilities

• Set the research strategy and lead nanotechnology programs.
• Design experiments for synthesis, characterization, and applications of nanomaterials.
• Mentor scientists and technicians; foster collaboration and high performance.
• Secure funding through grants and partnerships.
• Translate findings into potential technologies and products.
• Publish in leading journals and present at international conferences.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team mentoring

Communication

Presentation

Interpersonal skills

Education

PhD in Nanotechnology or related field

Tools

TEM

SEM

AFM

XRD

Device fabrication

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist to lead a Nanotechnology research group in Sandton. You will define strategy, mentor scientists, and drive discovery of novel nanomaterials for electronics, medicine, and energy.

You will secure external funding, manage budgets, and collaborate across disciplines, while translating research into impactful technologies and publishing findings at international forums.