Principal Research Scientist - Nanotechnology

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance bonuses

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Professional development & conference"

Generous paid time off

Relocation assistance

Dynamic research environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Research Scientist to lead our nanomaterials program in Klerksdorp, North West. You will direct high-impact projects, supervise researchers, and shape strategic directions for emerging technologies.

The role requires a PhD and a strong track record in synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials, with successful funding history and a global publication record. Relocation to Klerksdorp is expected.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field.
• 8–10 years of post-PhD research or industry experience with leadership.
• Proven track record of securing external research funding (grants).
• Extensive experience with advanced nanomaterials synthesis and characterization.
• Strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research projects focused on synthesis, characterization, and application of novel nanomaterials.
• Develop strategies for design and fabrication of nanostructures with tailored properties.
• Utilize TEM, SEM, AFM, XRD, and spectroscopy for material analysis.
• Explore and validate new applications for nanomaterials in electronics, energy, medicine, and catalysis.
• Secure research funding through grant writing and proposal development.
• Mentor and guide a team of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and technical staff.
• Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals and present at international conferences.
• Foster collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners.
• Ensure the safe and efficient operation of the nanotechnology research laboratory.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the nanotechnology research program.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team-building

Communication

Education

PhD in Nanotechnology or related field

Tools

TEM

SEM

AFM

XRD

Spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering research institution focused on advanced materials and nanotechnology, is seeking an experienced Principal Research Scientist to lead groundbreaking projects in Klerksdorp, North West. This senior role will involve directing research initiatives, developing novel nanomaterials, and exploring their applications in various high-tech sectors. The ideal candidate will possess a deep expertise in nanoscience and nanotechnology, with a strong publication record and a proven ability to secure funding and lead research teams. You will be instrumental in driving scientific innovation and contributing to the development of next-generation technologies. This is a remarkable opportunity to shape the future of nanotechnology within a world-class research environment. We are committed to fostering an environment of scientific curiosity, collaboration, and impactful discovery. The position offers an exceptional compensation package and comprehensive benefits, recognizing the significant contributions expected of this leadership role at our Klerksdorp, North West facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research projects focused on the synthesis, characterization, and application of novel nanomaterials.
• Develop innovative strategies for the design and fabrication of nanostructures with tailored properties.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques such as TEM, SEM, AFM, XRD, and spectroscopy for material analysis.
• Explore and validate new applications for nanomaterials in fields such as electronics, energy, medicine, and catalysis.
• Secure research funding through grant writing and proposal development.
• Mentor and guide a team of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and technical staff.
• Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals and present at international conferences.
• Foster collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners.
• Ensure the safe and efficient operation of the nanotechnology research laboratory.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the nanotechnology research program.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of post-doctoral or significant industry research experience in nanotechnology, with a strong emphasis on leading research efforts.
• Demonstrated expertise in the synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials.
• Proven track record of securing external research funding (grants).
• Extensive experience with advanced characterization tools relevant to nanoscience.
• Strong publication record in leading peer-reviewed journals and evidence of impactful research.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and team-building skills.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience in a Klerksdorp, North West-based research setting or willingness to relocate.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with significant performance bonuses and potential for equity.
• Our client provides top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• We offer substantial support for professional development, including funding for conference attendance, specialized training, and sabbaticals.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays, promotes work-life balance.
• Additional benefits include relocation assistance, on-site amenities, and a dynamic research environment at our Klerksdorp, North West campus.
• We foster a culture of innovation and scientific excellence.