Principal Research Scientist - Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials

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

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Research Scientist in Pretoria, Gauteng, to lead a research group at a renowned international institute. You will guide projects from conception to publication, mentor a team of scientists, and drive innovations in nanotechnology and materials science with potential commercialization.

You will secure competitive funding, oversee experiments, and collaborate with global experts to advance energy, electronics and healthcare applications.

Qualifications

• PhD in a related field required.
• At least 10 years post-doctoral research experience with leadership.
• Strong track record of publications in high-impact journals.

Responsibilities

• Lead research activities in nanotechnology and advanced materials.
• Develop and execute innovative research strategies from conception to publication.
• Secure external funding through competitive grants.
• Mentor and supervise postdocs, PhD students, and researchers.
• Oversee experimental design and data integrity.
• Publish findings in top-tier journals and present at conferences.
• Foster collaborations with academic and industry partners.
• Manage research budgets and resources.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Research collaboration

Communication

Data integrity

Education

PhD in Materials Science/ Chemistry/ Physics/ Nanotechnology

Tools

TEM

SEM

XRD

XPS

Spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role Our client, a renowned international research institute focused on pioneering advancements in nanotechnology and materials science, is seeking a Principal Research Scientist to lead their cutting-edge research group in Pretoria, Gauteng. This leadership position involves guiding research projects from conception through to publication and potential commercialization, focusing on novel materials with applications in energy, electronics, and healthcare. You will be responsible for fostering an environment of innovation, securing research grants, and mentoring a team of highly skilled scientists and engineers. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of material science within Pretoria, working with state-of-the-art facilities and collaborating with global experts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and direct research activities in nanotechnology and advanced materials science, focusing on areas such as 2D materials, nanocomposites, and smart materials.
• Develop and execute innovative research strategies, translating fundamental scientific discoveries into practical applications.
• Secure external funding through competitive grant applications from national and international bodies.
• Mentor and supervise a team of postdoctoral researchers, PhD students, and research assistants.
• Oversee the design and execution of experiments, ensuring high standards of scientific rigor and data integrity.
• Characterize novel materials using advanced techniques (e.g., TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS, spectroscopy).
• Publish research findings in top-tier scientific journals and present work at international conferences.
• Foster collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners to drive innovation and technology transfer.
• Manage research budgets and laboratory resources effectively.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and development of the institute's research agenda in Pretoria.

Requirements

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Nanotechnology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of post-doctoral research experience with a strong track record of leadership and publications in high-impact journals.
• Extensive expertise in the synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials and advanced materials.
• Demonstrated success in securing competitive research funding.
• Proven experience in managing and mentoring research teams.
• Proficiency with a wide range of advanced characterization techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information clearly and persuasively.
• Strong network within the scientific community and experience with industry collaborations.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment within our Pretoria facility.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund, relocation assistance, and significant research funding. You will have access to world-class laboratory facilities and opportunities for professional development, international travel, and impactful research contributions. This is a chance to make a significant impact on the field of materials science from Pretoria, Gauteng.