Research Scientist - Materials Science

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive health and retirement

Opportunities for professional growth

Access to advanced labs in Paarl

Dynamic, collaborative work culture

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a creative Research Scientist in Materials Science to join its client in Paarl, South Africa. You will design, synthesize, characterize and evaluate next-generation materials, translating discoveries into practical solutions within a collaborative R&D environment. The ideal candidate holds a Ph.D.

or M.S. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics or related engineering, with 3+ years' lab experience and strong skills in SEM/TEM, XRD/FTIR and DSC/TGA, plus excellent

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of research experience in materials synthesis, characterization, and testing.
• Proficiency with characterization techniques such as microscopy (SEM, TEM), spectroscopy (XRD, FTIR), and thermal analysis (DSC, TGA).
• Understanding of fundamental materials science concepts and processing techniques.
• Experience with computational materials modeling is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with excellent communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and process novel materials, including polymers, composites, or nanomaterials.
• Characterize material structure, properties, and performance using advanced analytical techniques.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to optimize material performance for specific applications.
• Conduct experimental studies to understand material degradation mechanisms and improve durability.
• Collaborate with engineers and product development teams to translate material innovations into practical solutions.
• Maintain detailed experimental records and prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Collaborative spirit

3+ years research experience

Education

Ph.D. or Master’s in Materials Science / Chemistry / Physics / related engineering

Tools

SEM/TEM microscopy

XRD/FTIR spectroscopy

DSC/TGA thermal analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a creative and driven Research Scientist specializing in Materials Science to join their innovative team in Paarl , South Africa. This role is central to developing next-generation materials with enhanced properties for a variety of applications. You will be involved in the entire research lifecycle, from conceptualization and synthesis to characterization and performance evaluation. The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in materials science principles, hands‑on laboratory experience, and a collaborative spirit. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge R&D within a company that values innovation and scientific excellence, operating within the scenic landscape of the Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and process novel materials, including polymers, composites, or nanomaterials.
• Characterize material structure, properties, and performance using advanced analytical techniques.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to optimize material performance for specific applications.
• Conduct experimental studies to understand material degradation mechanisms and improve durability.
• Collaborate with engineers and product development teams to translate material innovations into practical solutions.
• Maintain detailed experimental records and prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of research experience in materials synthesis, characterization, and testing.
• Proficiency with characterization techniques such as microscopy (SEM, TEM), spectroscopy (XRD, FTIR), and thermal analysis (DSC, TGA).
• Understanding of fundamental materials science concepts and processing techniques.
• Experience with computational materials modeling is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with excellent communication abilities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth, attending conferences, and further training.
• Access to well‑equipped laboratories and advanced characterization facilities in Paarl .
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment focused on innovation and scientific advancement.