Principal Research Scientist - Nanotechnology

Placements24; Johannesburg; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Home office stipend

Professional development budget

Generous paid time off

Remote collaboration tools

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist in Nanotechnology to lead groundbreaking work in designing, synthesizing, and applying nanomaterials. The role is remote with focus on Rustenburg-area industrial applications, requiring strategic direction and cross-disciplinary leadership.

You will mentor junior researchers, drive collaborations with global partners, and help shape the nanotechnology division's roadmap, while delivering innovative outcomes and publications.

Qualifications

• PhD in Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive nanotechnology research with a strong publications record.
• Expertise in nanotech areas such as nano-fabrication, synthesis (quantum dots, nanoparticles, nanowires), or nanodevices.
• Ability to lead complex research projects independently and in remote teams.
• Experience with advanced nanomaterial characterization (AFM, TEM, XPS, spectroscopy).
• Strong communication and leadership skills with a record of mentoring researchers.

Responsibilities

• Lead advanced research projects in nanotechnology focusing on synthesis, characterization, and applications.
• Develop strategies for design and manipulation of nanomaterials for industrial use.
• Conduct theoretical and experimental investigations on nanoscale systems.
• Collaborate with engineers, chemists, and physicists to accelerate product development.
• Mentor junior scientists and researchers; contribute to publications and patents.
• Manage timelines, resources, and budgets for assigned projects.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Scientific writing

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

PhD in Nanotechnology

Tools

AFM

TEM

XPS

Spectroscopy

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in pioneering scientific research, is seeking an exceptional Principal Research Scientist specializing in Nanotechnology to join their dynamic team, based remotely but with a focus on supporting operations near **Rustenburg, North West**. This senior-level position requires a visionary individual capable of leading groundbreaking research in the design, synthesis, and application of nanomaterials. The role involves driving innovation, mentoring junior scientists, and contributing to the strategic direction of our nanotechnology division. We are looking for a candidate with a deep scientific understanding, a passion for discovery, and a proven ability to translate complex research into tangible outcomes. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of nanotechnology from a remote perspective, leveraging advanced tools and collaborating with world‑class researchers across the globe. The ideal candidate will thrive in a virtual collaboration environment, demonstrating exceptional communication and project management skills. The position's focus on **Rustenburg, North West** indicates key industrial applications for our nanotechnology research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead advanced research projects in the field of nanotechnology, focusing on novel material synthesis, characterization, and application development.
• Develop and implement innovative strategies for the design and manipulation of nanomaterials for specific industrial purposes.
• Conduct in-depth theoretical and experimental investigations into the properties and behaviour of nanoscale systems.
• Collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams, including engineers, chemists, and physicists, to accelerate product development.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and research associates, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and continuous learning.
• Author high‑impact publications, present research findings at international conferences, and contribute to patent filings.
• Identify and explore emerging trends and technologies in nanotechnology, proposing new research directions.
• Manage research timelines, resources, and budgets for assigned projects.
• Ensure adherence to all safety protocols and best practices in remote laboratory setups or collaborative facilities.
• Engage with external partners and academic institutions to foster collaborative research efforts.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive research experience in nanotechnology, with a significant publication record in leading peer‑reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more areas of nanotechnology, such as nano‑fabrication, nanomaterial synthesis (e.g., quantum dots, nanoparticles, nanowires), or nanodevices.
• Proven ability to lead and manage complex research projects, both independently and in a remote team setting.
• Experience with advanced characterization techniques relevant to nanomaterials (e.g., AFM, TEM, XPS, spectroscopy).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a creative approach to scientific challenges.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex scientific information to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in scientific software and simulation tools relevant to nanotechnology.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and experience mentoring junior researchers.
• Strong network within the nanotechnology research community is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our remote workforce. This includes a substantial annual bonus, excellent health, dental, and vision insurance, and a generous retirement savings plan with company contributions. We provide a home office stipend, allowances for professional development, and ample paid time off. This role offers the flexibility of remote work while contributing to impactful research relevant to industries near **Rustenburg, North West**. We foster a collaborative and innovative culture, providing opportunities for career advancement and personal growth within a leading scientific organization.