Senior Materials Science Researcher (Polymers)

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Comprehensive medical aid and retirem.

Opportunities for professional dev.

State-of-the-art lab facilities

Relocation assistance available

Generous annual leave and sick leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, seeks a Senior Materials Science Researcher specializing in polymers to lead advanced R&D projects. You will design experiments, analyze material performance, and collaborate with engineering teams to translate findings into practical polymer solutions.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, or Chemistry with 5+ years of hands-on polymer research, and proficiency with FTIR, NMR, DSC, TGA, SEM/TEM, plus extrusion,

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on polymer research experience.
• Expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and structure-property relations.
• Experience with material characterization instruments and techniques.
• Experience with polymer processing equipment is desirable.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on synthesis, modification, and characterization of advanced polymer materials.
• Design and execute experiments to investigate mechanical, thermal, electrical, and barrier properties.
• Utilize spectroscopy, thermal analysis, microscopy, and mechanical testing techniques.
• Develop and optimize polymer processing methods (extrusion, injection molding, 3D printing).
• Analyze data, prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Collaborate with product teams to identify material needs and propose solutions.
• Mentor junior researchers and uphold lab safety and equipment care.

Skills

Polymer chemistry

Polymer physics

Experimental research

Data analysis

Report writing

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Materials Science / Polymer Science / Chemistry

Tools

FTIR

NMR

DSC

TGA

SEM

TEM

Polymer processing equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an innovative and experienced Senior Materials Science Researcher specializing in polymers to join their advanced R&D facility in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This role is crucial for driving the development of next-generation polymer materials with enhanced properties for diverse industrial applications. You will lead research initiatives, design and conduct experiments, and analyze material performance to meet challenging technical requirements. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in polymer chemistry, physics, and processing, coupled with a proven track record in experimental research and material characterization. You will collaborate closely with engineering teams to translate research findings into practical material solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in a supportive and resource-rich environment in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. Your expertise will directly influence product innovation and technological advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the synthesis, modification, and characterization of advanced polymer materials.
• Design and execute experimental plans to investigate material properties such as mechanical, thermal, electrical, and barrier characteristics.
• Utilize a range of analytical and testing techniques, including spectroscopy (FTIR, NMR), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), microscopy (SEM, TEM), and mechanical testing.
• Develop and optimize polymer processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, injection molding, 3D printing).
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive technical reports and presentations.
• Collaborate with product development teams to identify material needs and propose innovative solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in polymer science, nanotechnology, and relevant application areas.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a culture of scientific excellence.
• Ensure safe laboratory practices and maintain equipment in excellent working condition.

Requirements

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on research experience in polymer science and engineering.
• Demonstrated expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and structure-property relationships.
• Proficiency with a variety of material characterization instruments and techniques.
• Experience with polymer processing equipment and methods is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of polymer physics, chemistry, and engineering principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for effective reporting and collaboration.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting your expertise and experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and attending scientific conferences.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and advanced analytical equipment.
• A dynamic and collaborative research environment located in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave benefits.