Research Scientist - Analytical Chemistry

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24, based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Research Scientist in Analytical Chemistry to develop and validate analytical methods for materials characterization. The role involves operating HPLC, GC, MS, FTIR, and NMR, analyzing complex data, and partnering with R&D, manufacturing and QA teams to drive product quality and innovation.

The ideal candidate holds an MSc or PhD in Analytical/Physical Chemistry with 4+ years of hands-on method development experience and strong

Qualifications

• Graduate degree (MSc/PhD) in Analytical/Physical Chemistry or related field.
• Minimum 4 years hands-on experience in analytical method development and validation.
• Experience with multiple instrumental techniques (HPLC, GC, MS, FTIR, NMR).
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods for materials characterization.
• Operate and maintain analytical instruments (HPLC, GC, MS, FTIR, NMR).
• Perform routine and non-routine sample analysis and interpret data sets.
• Troubleshoot instrumentation and methodologies to ensure data integrity.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and QA teams for analytical support.
• Prepare technical reports, method validation protocols, and study summaries.
• Stay current with advancements in analytical chemistry techniques.
• Contribute to implementation of new analytical technologies and workflows.

Skills

Analytical techniques

Instrumentation expertise

Data analysis

Communication skills

Education

MSc/PhD in Analytical Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

GC

MS

FTIR

NMR

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking organization in the materials science sector, is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist specializing in Analytical Chemistry to join their innovative team in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**. This role is crucial for developing and validating analytical methods to support product development and quality control. The successful candidate will work with a diverse range of analytical instrumentation and techniques to characterize materials and solve complex chemical problems. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and development in a collaborative and dynamic environment, with a blend of remote strategic work and on-site laboratory operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and validate analytical methods for the characterization of raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
• Operate and maintain a variety of analytical instruments, including HPLC, GC, MS, FTIR, and NMR.
• Perform routine and non-routine sample analysis, interpreting complex data sets.
• Troubleshoot analytical instrumentation and methodologies, ensuring data integrity and accuracy.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams to provide analytical support.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, method validation protocols, and study summaries.
• Stay current with advancements in analytical chemistry techniques and instrumentation.
• Contribute to the implementation of new analytical technologies and workflows.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of hands‑on experience in analytical method development and validation.
• Proficiency with a broad range of analytical techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of chemical principles and their application to materials science.
• Excellent problem‑solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively in a team environment.
• Good written and verbal communication skills for reporting and collaboration.
• Experience with data analysis software and statistical methods is desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives. Benefits include comprehensive medical coverage, a retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off. Employees have access to professional development resources and opportunities for career advancement. This hybrid role, based in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal**, provides a dynamic work setting combining on-site expertise with flexible remote engagement.