Remote Lead Research Scientist - Advanced Materials

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Performance bonuses

Stock options

Health insurance

Paid time off

Home office stipend

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Research Scientist for a fully remote role in advanced materials. You will lead projects from concept to validation, publish in top journals, and mentor junior researchers.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD, 7–10 years post-doctoral experience, and a proven track record in materials research. Strong communication and remote collaboration skills are essential for a globally distributed team.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant science discipline with a strong publication record.
• 7–10 years post-doctoral experience in advanced materials R&D.
• Proven track record leading research projects and delivering results.
• Experience with materials characterization, synthesis, and processing.
• Excellent communication and ability to work remotely.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research projects on novel advanced materials.
• Design and execute experimental protocols; analyze data.
• Mentor junior researchers and staff.
• Develop innovative research methodologies.
• Stay updated on advances in materials science.
• Publish findings in journals and present at conferences.
• Write grant proposals and help secure funding.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams remotely.
• Ensure lab safety and compliance.

Skills

Research leadership

Remote collaboration

Analytical thinking

Scientific communication

Budget management

Independent work

Education

PhD in Materials Science or related field

Tools

Computational materials software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge research and development organization at the forefront of material science, is seeking a highly accomplished and innovative Lead Research Scientist to join their fully remote team. This position is crucial for driving groundbreaking research in advanced materials, leading research projects from conceptualization to validation, and publishing findings in leading scientific journals. The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline, a strong publication record, and extensive experience in materials research, particularly in areas relevant to emerging technologies. As a remote role, exceptional communication and collaboration skills are essential for working effectively with a globally distributed team of scientists and engineers. This is a unique opportunity to pioneer new discoveries and make a significant impact in the field of advanced materials from your home laboratory.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research projects focused on the discovery and development of novel advanced materials.
• Design and execute complex experimental protocols, analyze data, and interpret results with high scientific rigor.
• Supervise and mentor junior research scientists and technical staff, fostering a collaborative research environment.
• Develop innovative research methodologies and approaches to solve challenging scientific problems.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and trends in materials science and related fields.
• Prepare and present research findings at international conferences and in peer-reviewed publications.
• Write grant proposals and contribute to securing external funding for research initiatives.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including product development and engineering, on a remote basis.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and laboratory best practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7-10 years of post-doctoral research experience in advanced materials R&D.
• Proven track record of leading research projects and delivering successful outcomes.
• Extensive publication record in high-impact scientific journals and conference presentations.
• Deep expertise in materials characterization techniques, synthesis, and processing.
• Experience with computational materials science tools is a significant advantage.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fully remote setting.
• Strong project management skills and experience managing research budgets.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Generous performance-based bonuses and potential for stock options.
• Full remote work flexibility, allowing for work from anywhere.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and research sabbatical opportunities.
• Allowance for home office setup and professional development.
• Opportunity to work on pioneering research with a globally recognized team.