Senior Materials Scientist - Advanced Composites Research

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Materials Scientist to lead R&D efforts in designing and developing advanced composite materials for aerospace and automotive applications. Based in Upington, this hybrid role emphasizes synthesis, processing, and rigorous material characterization using state-of-the-art equipment.

You will apply computational modeling (FEA) to optimize microstructures, supervise experiments, publish findings, and present at international conferences while collaborating with

Qualifications

• PhD in composite materials or closely related field with strong research in advanced composites.
• Post-PhD research track record in synthesis, processing, and characterization of composites.
• Experience publishing in high-quality journals and presenting at conferences.

Responsibilities

• Lead R&D projects on designing and developing advanced composite materials.
• Develop processing techniques such as RTM, filament winding, additive manufacturing, and hot pressing.
• Characterize mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties using advanced instrumentation.
• Apply computational modeling (FEA) to predict behavior and optimize microstructures.
• Mentor junior staff and collaborate with design and manufacturing teams.

Skills

Composite synthesis

Composite processing

Material characterization

FEA modeling

Publications & presentations

Education

PhD in composite materials

Tools

FEA software

X-ray tomography

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading research organization specializing in advanced materials for aerospace and automotive applications, is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to join their hybrid R&D team. Based in Upington, Northern Cape, this role will drive innovation in the design, development, and characterization of novel advanced composite materials. You will lead projects focused on enhancing material performance, durability, and sustainability, utilizing state-of-the-art characterization techniques and computational modeling. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that impacts major industries, working alongside a team of experts in materials science and engineering. We are committed to advancing the field of composite materials and seek passionate individuals to contribute to our dynamic research environment in Upington.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development efforts in the design and synthesis of advanced composite materials, including polymer matrix composites, ceramic matrix composites, and metal matrix composites.
• Develop and optimize processing techniques for composite materials, such as resin transfer molding, filament winding, additive manufacturing, and hot pressing.
• Characterize material properties, including mechanical (tensile, fatigue, impact), thermal, and chemical properties, using advanced analytical equipment (e.g., universal testing machines, DSC, TGA, SEM, TEM, X-ray tomography).
• Utilize computational modeling and simulation tools (e.g., FEA) to predict material behavior and optimize composite microstructures.
• Conduct failure analysis investigations and provide root cause solutions for material-related issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design engineers and manufacturing specialists, to translate laboratory findings into practical applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence within the Upington team.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a related field with a specialization in composite materials.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-Ph.D. research experience in the field of advanced composites.
• Demonstrated expertise in the synthesis, processing, and characterization of composite materials.
• Proven track record of high-quality research publications and conference presentations.
• Experience with computational modeling of materials, particularly finite element analysis (FEA), is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of material mechanics, failure modes, and performance testing standards relevant to composites.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills, adaptable to a hybrid work environment.
• Ability to manage multiple research projects and work independently.
• Passion for materials innovation and a commitment to advancing composite engineering.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including excellent health insurance, retirement fund contributions, and generous paid time off. This hybrid role provides flexibility while ensuring crucial on-site collaboration. We provide significant opportunities for professional development through access to cutting-edge facilities, training programs, and conference attendance. Join our Upington based team and make significant contributions to advanced materials research in the aerospace and automotive sectors.