Principal Research Scientist - Advanced Materials

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Continuous learning & development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal Research Scientist to lead innovative projects in advanced materials science in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. You will drive research from concept to practical application, shaping materials technology strategy and outcomes.

The ideal candidate has a PhD with 8–10 years of post-doctoral experience, strong expertise in polymers, composites, nanomaterials, and related characterization methods, and a proven track record of leading

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• 8–10 years of post-doctoral research experience in an industrial or academic R&D setting, focused on advanced materials.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least two of: polymer science, composite materials, nanotechnology, metallurgy, or ceramics.
• Proficiency in advanced characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, NMR, DSC, TGA, and XPS.
• Proven experience in leading and managing research teams and projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage R&D projects on advanced materials including polymers, composites, and nanomaterials.
• Design and execute experimental protocols for synthesis, processing, and characterization using state-of-the-art techniques.
• Analyze large datasets to identify trends and formulate new hypotheses.
• Collaborate with engineers, chemists, and product developers to translate research into solutions.
• Mentor junior researchers and technicians to foster rigor and innovation.
• Prepare research reports, technical documents, and publications for dissemination.

Skills

Polymer science

Composite materials

Nanotechnology

Metallurgy

Ceramics

Characterization tools

Team leadership

Scientific publishing

Education

PhD in Materials Science

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

NMR

DSC

TGA

XPS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovation hub in the scientific research and development sector, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Research Scientist to spearhead groundbreaking initiatives in advanced materials science. This pivotal role is based in the dynamic city of **Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal**. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of materials technology, driving research from conceptualization through to practical application. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of material properties, synthesis techniques, and characterization methods, coupled with a proven track record of leading complex R&D projects. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment, contributing to scientific advancements that will shape industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage cutting-edge research projects focused on the development of novel advanced materials, including polymers, composites, and nanomaterials.
• Design and execute complex experimental protocols for material synthesis, processing, and characterization, utilizing state-of-the-art analytical techniques.
• Analyze and interpret large datasets to identify trends, draw conclusions, and formulate new research hypotheses.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineers, chemists, and product developers, to translate research findings into viable technological solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and technicians, fostering a culture of scientific rigor and innovation.
• Prepare comprehensive research reports, technical documentation, and scientific publications for internal and external dissemination.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and technological advancements in materials science and related fields.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property through patent applications and disclosures.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively to ensure project success within specified parameters.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences, representing **Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal** and the organization.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of post-doctoral research experience in an industrial or academic R&D setting, with a focus on advanced materials.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least two of the following areas: polymer science, composite materials, nanotechnology, metallurgy, or ceramics.
• Proficiency in advanced characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, NMR, DSC, TGA, and XPS.
• Proven experience in leading and managing research teams and projects.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience with computational materials science and modeling software is a plus.
• Published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific conferences.
• Must be eligible to work in **South Africa**.

Benefits

Our client values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional growth and personal well-being. This includes a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for continuous learning and development through workshops, conferences, and advanced training programs. Employees benefit from generous paid time off, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and a retirement savings plan.

• highly competitive salary
• performance-based bonuses
• opportunities for continuous learning and development through workshops, conferences, and advanced training programs.
• generous paid time off
• comprehensive health insurance coverage
• a retirement savings plan.