Principal Research Scientist - Materials Science

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work options

Health insurance

Conference & training budget

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg seeks a Principal Research Scientist to lead advanced materials R&D, manage projects from concept to commercialization, and mentor a team of researchers at our state-of-the-art facility.

You will guide synthesis, characterization, and modeling efforts across aerospace, electronics, and energy applications, publish in top journals, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to transfer technology.

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• 8–10 years post-doctoral and leadership experience.
• Experience with advanced characterization techniques (SEM, TEM, XRD, AFM, XPS).
• Proven track record leading funded research projects.
• Strong scientific writing and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex research projects in materials science.
• Design experimental protocols for material synthesis, characterization, and testing.
• Analyze and interpret complex data, guiding future directions.
• Develop and optimize novel materials and processes for industrial applications.
• Author high-impact publications and present findings at conferences.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster a collaborative environment.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams for technology transfer.
• Manage research budgets, resources, and timelines.
• Stay abreast of latest advancements in materials science.

Skills

Leadership

Scientific writing

Data analysis

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Materials Science

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

AFM

XPS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced materials research and development, is seeking a highly innovative and experienced Principal Research Scientist to join their state-of-the-art R&D facility in **Johannesburg, Gauteng**. This senior role is pivotal in driving groundbreaking research initiatives, leading scientific projects from conception through to commercialization, and mentoring a team of talented researchers. You will be instrumental in exploring novel materials, developing advanced synthesis techniques, and characterizing material properties to address critical challenges in various industries, including aerospace, electronics, and energy. The ideal candidate possesses a Ph.D. in Materials Science or a related field, a distinguished publication record, and a proven ability to translate fundamental research into tangible technological advancements. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of materials science at a prestigious institution in **Johannesburg**.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex research projects in materials science, focusing on areas such as nanomaterials, composites, or advanced polymers.
• Design and execute experimental protocols for material synthesis, characterization, and testing.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, drawing meaningful conclusions and identifying future research directions.
• Develop and optimize novel materials and processes for specific industrial applications.
• Author high-impact research publications in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering and product development, to ensure seamless technology transfer.
• Manage research budgets, resources, and timelines effectively.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and trends in materials science and related fields.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of post-doctoral research experience, with a significant portion in a leadership or principal scientist role.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more areas of materials science (e.g., synthesis, characterization, modeling).
• Proven track record of leading research projects, securing funding, and managing teams.
• Extensive experience with advanced characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, AFM, XPS).
• Excellent scientific writing and presentation skills, with a strong publication record.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research setting in **Johannesburg**.
• Proficiency in relevant scientific software and data analysis tools.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a creative approach to scientific challenges.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous research and development budget and access to cutting-edge equipment.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, conferences, and advanced training.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• Contribution to high-impact research with global significance.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance, including hybrid options.