Research Scientist - Polymer Chemistry

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Well-equipped laboratories

Collaborative team culture

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a talented Research Scientist in Soweto to advance polymer chemistry. You will design, synthesize, and characterize new polymers, and collaborate with product teams to translate lab insights into scalable materials.

The role emphasizes polymerization optimization, experimental rigor, and clear technical reporting, with access to modern lab facilities and a culture that values scientific curiosity.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of relevant research experience, preferably in industrial R&D.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and polymer physics understanding.
• Hands-on experience with various polymerization techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a creative approach to scientific challenges.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects focused on the synthesis of novel polymers and copolymers.
• Develop and optimize polymerization techniques, including free radical, condensation, and living polymerization methods.
• Characterize polymers using techniques such as GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, and rheology.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to tailor polymer performance for specific applications.
• Collaborate with engineers and product development specialists to integrate new polymers into product lines.
• Maintain comprehensive laboratory records and prepare technical reports on findings.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Polymer physics understanding

Analytical instrumentation

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Technical reporting

Education

PhD or MSc in Polymer Chemistry

Related fields also acceptable

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a talented Research Scientist with a specialization in Polymer Chemistry to join their dynamic innovation hub in Soweto. This role is instrumental in developing novel polymeric materials with enhanced properties for diverse applications, including advanced coatings, adhesives, and composites. The Research Scientist will be responsible for designing, synthesizing, and characterizing new polymers, optimizing polymerization processes, and collaborating with product development teams. You will work in a stimulating and collaborative environment that fosters creativity and scientific exploration, utilizing modern laboratory facilities and contributing to the company's advanced materials portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute research projects focused on the synthesis of novel polymers and copolymers.
• Develop and optimize polymerization techniques, including free radical, condensation, and living polymerization methods.
• Characterize polymers using techniques such as GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, and rheology.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to tailor polymer performance for specific applications.
• Collaborate with engineers and product development specialists to integrate new polymers into product lines.
• Maintain comprehensive laboratory records and prepare technical reports on findings.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of relevant research experience, preferably in an industrial R&D setting.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and understanding of polymer physics.
• Hands-on experience with various polymerization techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a creative approach to scientific challenges.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and team collaboration.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement contributions.
• The opportunity to work on innovative polymer development projects with tangible applications.
• Access to well-equipped polymer synthesis and characterization laboratories.
• A collaborative and supportive team culture that values scientific curiosity.
• Opportunities for professional growth and skill development.