Principal Research Scientist - Materials Science (Remote)

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 3,046,000 - 4,230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work environment

Competitive salary

Premium health insurance

Retirement plan with employer matching

Generous paid time off

Professional development budget

Home office stipend

Sabbatical opportunity

Global network of leading scientists

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist in Materials Science for a fully remote role. You will lead research programs on novel materials for energy, electronics, and aerospace, guiding a team of scientists and collaborating across functions.

The role emphasizes independent initiative, mentorship, and publication, with opportunities to shape strategy and contribute to IP. Remote work enables collaboration across time zones while driving impactful results.

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry or related field.
• 10+ years of post-doctoral research experience leading independent projects.
• Strong publications and ability to mentor researchers.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research initiatives in nanomaterials, polymers, composites or ceramics.
• Develop synthesis and processing techniques for new materials.
• Characterize material properties with advanced analytical tools.
• Model and simulate material behavior to optimize design.
• Mentor junior researchers and publish in top journals.

Skills

Research leadership

Mentoring

Scientific communication

Python

MATLAB

Education

PhD in Materials Science or related field

Tools

DFT

Molecular dynamics

Microscopy

Spectroscopy

Thermal analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced materials innovation and sustainable technology solutions, is actively seeking a distinguished Principal Research Scientist specializing in Materials Science. This is a fully remote position, offering an unparalleled opportunity for an experienced scientist to drive transformative research and development from anywhere. The successful candidate will lead critical projects focused on the discovery, design, and characterization of novel materials for next-generation applications in energy, electronics, and aerospace. You will be at the forefront of scientific exploration, leveraging your deep expertise to solve complex material challenges and contribute to the company's strategic growth. This role requires a visionary individual who can not only conduct cutting-edge research but also provide strategic guidance and mentorship to a talented team of scientists and engineers. The fully remote setup allows for maximum focus and flexibility, while ensuring seamless collaboration with colleagues across different time zones and locations. Our client is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in materials science and creating a significant positive impact on the world.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead independent research initiatives in areas such as nanomaterials, polymers, composites, or advanced ceramics.
• Develop innovative materials synthesis and processing techniques.
• Conduct in-depth characterization of material properties using advanced analytical tools (e.g., microscopy, spectroscopy, thermal analysis).
• Model and simulate material behavior to predict performance and optimize design.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, engineering, and manufacturing, to transition research discoveries into commercial applications.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and continuous learning.
• Publish research findings in leading scientific journals and present at international symposia.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation through patent applications.
• Manage research project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation effectively.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technological advancements in materials science globally.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral research experience, with a strong emphasis on leading independent research projects.
• Proven expertise in one or more areas of advanced materials (e.g., nanomaterials, functional polymers, high-performance composites, advanced ceramics).
• Extensive experience with materials characterization techniques and interpretation of complex data.
• Demonstrated ability in computational materials science, including modeling and simulation (e.g., DFT, molecular dynamics).
• Strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations at major international conferences.
• Experience in leading and mentoring research teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in programming and data analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
• Ability to work autonomously and drive projects to completion in a remote setting.

Benefits

• Embrace the freedom of a fully remote work environment coupled with a highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• premium health, dental, and vision insurance
• robust retirement savings plan with employer matching
• generous paid time off
• A substantial annual budget for professional development, covering conferences, workshops, and continuous learning opportunities.
• home office setup stipend
• potential for sabbatical leaves after a period of dedicated service
• access to a global network of leading scientists