Research Group Leader

Mintek Pty Ltd.; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 400,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned scientific research organization in Randburg is seeking a Scientist to manage and execute research projects in chemistry. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record of leading research efforts, with at least a Master's degree and substantial laboratory experience. Responsibilities include supervising students, writing research proposals, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This is a permanent position offering a market-related salary.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years experience in technologies domain research.
• 5-10 years experience in the chemistry laboratory.
• At least 5 scientific peer-reviewed publications.
• 3 years working in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage research projects.
• Provide high-quality reports and presentations.
• Supervise postgraduate students and staff.
• Maintain compliance with SHEQ procedures.

Skills

Research project management

Proposal writing

Team leadership

Scientific writing

Troubleshooting instruments

Education

MSc in Chemistry

PhD in Chemistry

Tools

Quality assurance systems

ISO 17025 accreditation procedures

Job description

Industry: Scientific, Research & Development

Job category: Others: RandD, Science and Scientific Research

Location: Randburg

Contract: Permanent

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: No

Introduction

An exciting career opportunity exists at Mintek for a Scientist. The successful incumbent will execute research projects (write proposals, execute research plans, promote innovation). Lead team of scientist in various research project to generate and disseminate knowledge. All suitably qualified and experienced candidates are invited to apply.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS :

Management and execution of research projects.

• Propose and/or contribute to the strategic investment plan and implement, Contract Research and Development and other grant-funded projects (NRF, TIA, Government departments; international e.g. Horizon 2020).
• Develop written research projects proposal based on the needs of clients or specific new project ideas for innovation.
• Conduct scientific research as per scope to achieve objectives.
• Compile monthly project report progress.
• Monitor & evaluate project milestones against billing in long-running projects (annual and multiple years).
• Manage all resources involved in a project, namely budget, people and equipment.
• Ensure the completion of projects and tasks on time.
• Compile reports of investigations in the division.
• Attend scientific workshops and conference to present research work.
• Write conference papers and journal manuscripts.
• Initiate, maintain and strengthen the new and existing local and international collaboration.
  

Execute daily activities of the group

• Conceptualization of research, coordinating research outputs and reports.
• Produce high quality reports, papers, book chapters and presentations.
• Supervise and co-supervise the postgraduate students and staff, MSc and PhD.
• Initiate funding for research running cost i.e. external funding (NRF, Industry etc.) and internal funds (Science vote).
• Improve quality and efficiency of processes with the interaction of stakeholders.

Participate in proficiency testing schemes and production of certified reference material

• Actively participate in group proficiency testing schemes to ensure that desired results are obtained.
• Participate in troubleshooting animalities and provide solutions to scientific challenges.
• Participate in the CRM production activities when required.
• Assist in compiling data for CRM production.

Maintain and adhere to all SHEQ procedures

• Actively participates in SHEQ duties and attends all relevant meetings.
• Practices Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) by ensuring that all work areas, balance rooms and the general laboratory are kept clean.
• Strives to meet the objectives of the group by observing the quality, safety and environmental standards set out by the division.
• Works systematically and in compliance with the group’s standard operating procedures and methods to achieve accurate assays within acceptable time frames.

Minimum: MSc in Chemistry
Ideal: PhD in Chemistry
At least 3 years experience in technologies domain research within an RDI environment.
5-10 years’ experience in the chemistry laboratory
5-10 years’ experience in the research outputs
A minimum of 5 scientific peer reviewed publications
Minimum of 3 years of working experience in ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
Ability to troubleshoot instruments and commission new equipment.
Ability to develop and maintain a quality assurance system and administration thereof.
Professional registration (SACNASP or SACI-Corporate Member)