Remote Senior Research Scientist, Renewable Energy Systems

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Remote; ZAR 2,001,000 - 3,168,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first role

Flexible hours

Technology stipend

Professional development funding

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to join a remote Renewable Energy Systems team. You will lead research on energy storage, grid integration, and smart grid technologies, and collaborate with a distributed global team.

The role focuses on developing algorithms, publishing in journals, mentoring juniors, and ensuring safe, ethical research. PhD plus 7+ years in energy tech required; strong publication record and programming skills preferred.

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrical/Mechanical/Materials Physics or related with energy focus.
• 7+ years in renewable energy research (solar/wind/battery).
• Publications and conference presentations in peer-reviewed journals.
• Strong understanding of power systems and energy storage.
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink and power system tools.
• Proficient Python for data analysis and modelling.
• Ability to lead projects and mentor junior researchers.
• Experience with remote collaboration and cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Conduct R&D in renewable energy systems, emphasizing storage and grid integration.
• Design experimental protocols to evaluate performance of new technologies.
• Analyze datasets from simulations and trials to derive insights.
• Develop algorithms/models to optimize energy generation and storage.
• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and policy analysts.
• Publish papers and draft patent applications.
• Present findings at conferences and maintain research standards.
• Mentor junior researchers and ensure safety and ethics in activities.

Skills

Renewable energy

Python programming

Matlab/Simulink

Data analysis

Technical writing

Mentoring

Remote teamwork

Education

PhD in related energy field

Tools

PSS/E

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

Python

Job description

Senior Research Scientist - Renewable Energy Systems (Remote)

Our client, a global leader in sustainable technology solutions, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to join their pioneering renewable energy division. This fully remote role is designed for an individual passionate about developing innovative solutions for energy storage and grid integration. You will be instrumental in researching, developing, and testing advanced technologies that will shape the future of clean energy. Working collaboratively with a distributed team of experts, you will contribute to high-impact projects focused on advancing solar, wind, and battery technologies. This is an exceptional opportunity to drive meaningful change in the fight against climate change, contributing to advancements that will be felt far beyond Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research and development in renewable energy systems, focusing on energy storage, grid integration, and smart grid technologies.
• Design and execute experimental protocols to evaluate the performance and efficiency of new energy technologies.
• Analyze complex datasets from simulations and experimental trials to derive actionable insights.
• Develop novel algorithms and models for optimizing energy generation, storage, and distribution.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, material scientists, and policy analysts.
• Author technical reports, research papers for publication in leading journals, and patent applications.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences and symposia.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in the renewable energy sector.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the technical growth of the team.
• Ensure the safety and ethical conduct of all research activities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field with a strong focus on energy systems.
• Minimum of 7 years of research experience in renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, or battery systems.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Deep understanding of power systems, energy storage technologies, and grid modernization.
• Experience with simulation software (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, PSS/E, DIgSILENT PowerFactory) is essential.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python for data analysis and modeling.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a remote team.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and mentor junior staff.
• Experience with policy analysis and techno-economic assessments in the energy sector is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package tailored for remote employees. This includes flexible working hours, excellent health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan with matching contributions, and ample paid vacation and holidays. We provide a technology stipend to support your home office setup. Opportunities for continuous professional development are encouraged through funding for workshops, conferences, and advanced training. Join a forward-thinking organization committed to building a sustainable future and enjoy the autonomy and impact of a remote-first role.