Principal Polymer Chemist: Synthesis & Innovation Leader

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybride; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

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

Résumé du poste

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.

Responsabilités

• 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.

Connaissances

Polymer synthesis

Polymerization techniques

Structure-property relationships

Leadership & mentoring

Analytical interpretation

Computational modeling (plus)

Formation

PhD in Polymer Chemistry / Organic Chemistry / Materials Science

Outils

GPC

NMR

FTIR

DSC

TGA

SEM

Description du poste

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