Research Chemist - Materials Science

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 780,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Pension fund contribution

Access to advanced research facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dedicated Research Chemist with expertise in Materials Science to join their advanced R&D facility in Rustenburg. You will lead hands-on experimentation, material synthesis, and characterization to develop novel materials for a range of industrial applications.

The role requires strong knowledge of spectroscopy, chromatography, and microscopy, plus the ability to collaborate with engineers and document findings for IP protection.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
• 3-5 years hands-on experience in materials synthesis and characterization.
• Proficiency with spectroscopy (NMR, IR, UV-Vis), chromatography, and microscopy (SEM, TEM).
• Strong understanding of polymer, inorganic, or physical chemistry relevant to materials science.
• Ability to work in a team and independently manage research tasks.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and meticulous experimental approach.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize and characterize new materials with specific properties.
• Conduct experiments to evaluate material performance under various conditions.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques for material structure and composition analysis.
• Collaborate with engineers and product developers to translate material innovations into practical applications.
• Document research findings, prepare technical reports, and contribute to patent applications.
• Ensure laboratory safety protocols are rigorously followed at all times.

Skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

MSc or PhD in Chemistry or Materials Science

Tools

Spectroscopy (NMR, IR, UV-Vis)

Chromatography

Microscopy (SEM, TEM)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Research Chemist with expertise in Materials Science to join their advanced R&D facility in Rustenburg. You will be instrumental in the development of novel materials for a range of industrial applications, working in state-of-the-art laboratories. This role involves hands‑on experimentation, material characterization, and contributing to the intellectual property pipeline. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of material innovation and thrive in a collaborative, results‑oriented environment, this is an exciting opportunity to make a tangible impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Synthesize and characterize new materials with specific desired properties.


• Conduct experiments to evaluate material performance under various conditions.


• Utilize advanced analytical techniques for material structure and composition analysis.


• Collaborate with engineers and product developers to translate material innovations into practical applications.


• Document research findings, prepare technical reports, and contribute to patent applications.


• Ensure laboratory safety protocols are rigorously followed at all times.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.


• 3-5 years of hands‑on experience in materials synthesis and characterization.


• Proficiency with analytical techniques such as spectroscopy (NMR, IR, UV-Vis), chromatography, and microscopy (SEM, TEM).


• Strong understanding of polymer chemistry, inorganic chemistry, or physical chemistry principles relevant to materials science.


• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently manage research tasks.


• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a meticulous approach to experimental work.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance bonuses.


• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.


• Opportunities for professional growth and training.


• Pension fund contribution.


• Access to advanced research facilities in Rustenburg.