Senior Materials Scientist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Professional development funding

State-of-the-art facility

Health and life insurance

Job summary

Placements24 on behalf of a global leader in advanced materials manufacturing seeks a Senior Materials Scientist to lead R&D in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will oversee material characterization, performance testing, and development of synthesis processes for next-generation materials.

The role requires a PhD in Materials Science or related field and 6+ years of research experience with polymers, metals, ceramics, or nanomaterials.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant industry or academic research experience in materials science.
• Expertise in polymers, composites, metals, ceramics, or nanomaterials.
• Proficiency with advanced material characterization techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of material properties, processing-structure-property relationships.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex experimental programs.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Experience with computational materials modeling is a plus.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and ability to mentor junior staff.
• Track record of successful project management and delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects focused on synthesis, characterization, and application of novel materials.
• Conduct in-depth material analysis using SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy, and thermal analysis.
• Develop and optimize material processing techniques to achieve desired properties and performance.
• Investigate material failure mechanisms and propose solutions for enhanced durability and reliability.
• Collaborate with product development teams to translate laboratory findings into scalable manufacturing processes.
• Author technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in materials science and engineering.
• Manage laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the R&D department.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Problem solving

Communication

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Materials Science or related

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

Spectroscopy

Thermal analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced materials manufacturing, is seeking an accomplished Senior Materials Scientist to join their dynamic research and development team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, ZA. This role is critical for innovating and developing next-generation materials with enhanced properties for various industrial applications. You will be responsible for overseeing material characterization, performance testing, and the development of novel material synthesis processes. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in polymer science, metallurgy, or ceramics, coupled with a strong understanding of material failure analysis and performance optimization. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to high-impact projects, collaborate with leading engineers and scientists, and drive technological advancements in the materials sector. You will play a key role in guiding research projects from conception through to commercialization, ensuring the highest standards of scientific rigor and practical application. The Queenstown facility is equipped with advanced analytical and processing equipment, providing an ideal environment for cutting-edge research.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development projects focused on the synthesis, characterization, and application of novel materials.
• Conduct in-depth material analysis using techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy, and thermal analysis.
• Develop and optimize material processing techniques to achieve desired properties and performance characteristics.
• Investigate material failure mechanisms and propose solutions for enhanced durability and reliability.
• Collaborate with product development teams to translate laboratory findings into scalable manufacturing processes.
• Author technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in materials science and engineering.
• Manage laboratory equipment and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the R&D department.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant industry or academic research experience in materials science.
• Expertise in at least one of the following areas: polymers, composites, metals, ceramics, or nanomaterials.
• Proficiency with advanced material characterization techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of material properties, processing-structure-property relationships.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex experimental programs.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Experience with computational materials modeling is a plus.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and ability to mentor junior staff.
• Track record of successful project management and delivery.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, life insurance, and a retirement savings plan.
• Employees are provided with ample opportunities for professional development, including funding for advanced training and conference participation.
• The role in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, ZA offers a chance to work in a state-of-the-art facility with a team of dedicated professionals.
• We also offer relocation assistance and a supportive work environment that encourages innovation and career growth.