Senior Materials Scientist - Advanced Polymers

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Professional development

State-of-the-art lab facilities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist in Bloemfontein to lead R&D on advanced polymers, drive concept-to-commercialization, and mentor junior scientists. The role focuses on synthesis, characterization, processing, and collaboration with cross- functional teams.

You will work with state-of-the-art facilities, applying NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, SEM, TEM, and mechanical testing to develop new methodologies and publish research while contributing to the strategic materials portfolio.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field.
• Minimum 6 years of R&D experience in polymer science.
• Expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Proficiency with techniques such as NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, SEM, TEM, tensile testing.
• Strong understanding of polymer physics, rheology, and mechanics.
• Experience with computational modeling of polymer behavior.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and manage technical challenges.
• Excellent problem-solving and creative innovation.
• Strong written and verbal communication; team-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Lead the R&D of novel advanced polymer materials, focusing on synthesis, formulation, and processing.
• Characterize material properties using advanced analytical techniques (spectroscopy, microscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing).
• Investigate structure–property relationships to optimize material performance for applications.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to translate innovations into practical solutions.
• Develop and validate new experimental methodologies and protocols.
• Troubleshoot material-related issues in development and manufacturing.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians within the R&D team.
• Author technical reports, publications, and patent applications.
• Stay current with advancements in polymer science and related fields.
• Contribute to strategic direction of the materials science portfolio.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Polymer processing

NMR

FTIR

DSC

TGA

SEM

TEM

Tensile testing

Rheology

Mechanics

Computational modeling

Project leadership

Technical problem-solving

Scientific communication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic innovator in materials science, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Materials Scientist to drive advancements in the field of advanced polymers. This role, based in **Bloemfontein**, is crucial for the research, development, and characterization of novel polymer materials with applications in industries ranging from aerospace to biomedical devices. You will lead projects, mentor junior scientists, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to bring innovative materials from concept to commercialization. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to work with state‑of‑the‑art facilities and contribute to cutting‑edge research that addresses critical industrial challenges. We are looking for a candidate with a deep understanding of polymer chemistry, structure–property relationships, and advanced characterization techniques. Your expertise will be vital in pushing the boundaries of material performance and developing sustainable material solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a rapidly evolving field.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the research and development of novel advanced polymer materials, focusing on synthesis, formulation, and processing.
• Characterize material properties using a range of advanced analytical techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, microscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing).
• Investigate structure–property relationships to optimize material performance for specific applications.
• Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to translate material innovations into practical solutions.
• Develop and validate new experimental methodologies and protocols.
• Troubleshoot material‑related issues encountered during product development and manufacturing.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians within the R&D team.
• Author technical reports, research publications, and patent applications.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in polymer science and related fields.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the materials science research portfolio.

Requirements

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant research and development experience in polymer science.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Proficiency with a variety of material characterization techniques (e.g., NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, SEM, TEM, tensile testing).
• Strong understanding of polymer physics, rheology, and mechanics.
• Experience with computational modeling of polymer behavior is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and manage technical challenges.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a creative approach to innovation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information effectively.
• Experience working in a team‑oriented R&D environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and advancement. You will work in a stimulating environment with access to cutting‑edge laboratory equipment. Our client is committed to fostering innovation and provides support for continuous learning, including conference attendance and professional development programs. Enjoy a rewarding career where your contributions directly impact the development of advanced materials. Join a collaborative team dedicated to scientific excellence and technological innovation. We value our employees and strive to create a supportive and engaging workplace.