Principal Scientist - Polymer Chemistry R&D

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Bonus potential

Health coverage

Pension fund

Training & conference opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Scientist to lead Polymer Chemistry R&D in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This on-site role directs design, synthesis and characterization of advanced polymers, mentors scientists, and partners with engineering and manufacturing to move concepts to commercialization.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in polymer-related field with 8+ years in polymer R&D, expertise in polymerization techniques and structure–property relationships, strong leadership, and a track

Qualifications

• PhD required in related field.
• 8+ years in polymer R&D with publications and patents.
• Experience in polymerization techniques and polymer characterization.
• Ability to translate research into commercially viable polymer tech.
• Strong leadership and mentoring experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead fundamental and applied polymer chemistry research, focusing on novel synthesis routes.
• Develop and optimize polymerization processes, including scale-up to pilot.
• Characterize polymers using GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR, SEM.
• Establish structure-property relationships to guide material performance.
• Collaborate with product development to define material requirements.
• Manage research projects with resource allocation and timelines.
• Mentor scientists and technicians, fostering rigor and innovation.
• Prepare technical reports, patents, and publications.
• Ensure safety and environmental best practices in the lab.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Project management

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry

PhD in Materials Science

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

FTIR

SEM

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in advanced materials science, driving innovation in polymer technology. We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Scientist to lead our Polymer Chemistry Research & Development efforts in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA. This critical on-site role involves spearheading the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel polymers with enhanced performance characteristics. You will be responsible for setting research direction, mentoring junior scientists, and collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams to bring new materials from concept to commercialization. The ideal candidate possesses a profound understanding of polymer synthesis, structure-property relationships, and advanced analytical techniques. We are looking for a visionary leader committed to pushing the boundaries of material science and contributing to impactful technological advancements. This position offers a significant opportunity for professional growth and leadership within a dynamic R&D environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct fundamental and applied research in polymer chemistry, focusing on novel synthesis routes and material design.
• Develop and optimize polymerization processes, including scale-up from laboratory to pilot plant.
• Characterize polymers using a wide range of analytical techniques (e.g., GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR, SEM).
• Establish structure-property relationships to guide the development of materials with targeted performance attributes.
• Collaborate with product development and application teams to define material requirements and solve customer challenges.
• Manage research projects, including resource allocation, timeline management, and risk assessment.
• Mentor and guide a team of scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of scientific rigor and innovation.
• Author technical reports, patent applications, and publications in high-impact scientific journals.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations and environmental best practices in the laboratory.

Requirements

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in polymer R&D, with a strong publication and patent record.
• Expertise in various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, anionic, cationic, condensation) and polymer characterization methods.
• Proven ability to translate fundamental research into commercially viable polymer technologies.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience mentoring scientific staff.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in scientific literature searching and data analysis software.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information effectively.
• Experience with computational modeling of polymers is a plus.
• Willingness to work on-site in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly attractive remuneration package, including a competitive base salary, significant bonus potential, and long-term incentive plans. Comprehensive benefits include premium health coverage, a robust pension fund, and generous paid time off. We invest in our employees' growth through extensive training programs, support for conference participation, and clear career progression pathways. You will have access to world-class research facilities and cutting-edge equipment. Our client promotes a collaborative and innovative work culture, encouraging scientific excellence and mutual respect. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a leading polymer scientist to shape the future of materials.