Senior Materials Scientist - Advanced Polymers

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement savings plan

Advanced laboratory equipment and res"

Professional development including/con

Job summary

Prestigious Research Institute in Durban is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to lead synthesis and characterization of advanced polymer materials. You will design architectures, analyze properties, and translate results into practical applications in a state-of-the-art lab.

The role requires a PhD and 6+ years in polymer science, with strong experimental design and collaboration skills. Mentoring, IP contributions, and conference participation are encouraged.

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, or closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years post-doctoral or industrial R&D in polymer science.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization and processing.
• Ability to design and conduct complex experimental investigations.
• Strong knowledge of polymer physics and engineering principles.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on synthesis and characterization of advanced polymers.
• Develop and implement characterization techniques (GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, SEM, TEM).
• Investigate structure-property relations to design polymers with desired performance.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to translate research to applications.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians in the lab.
• Prepare technical reports and publish research findings; present at meetings.
• Manage lab equipment and ensure safety compliance; contribute to IP development.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer processing

Structure-property analysis

Team collaboration

Mentoring junior researchers

Analytical problem solving

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in Materials Science or Polymer Chemistry

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

SEM

TEM

Data analysis software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious research institution focused on materials science innovation, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Materials Scientist to join their cutting‑edge laboratory in Durban . This role is critical in driving forward the development and characterization of advanced polymer materials for a variety of industrial applications. You will be instrumental in designing new polymer architectures, investigating their properties, and translating laboratory findings into viable technological solutions. The position requires a deep understanding of polymer chemistry, synthesis, characterization techniques, and structure‑property relationships. As a Senior Scientist, you will also mentor junior researchers, contribute to project strategy, and collaborate with internal and external partners. This is a demanding, hands‑on role within a state‑of‑the‑art facility located in the vibrant coastal city of Durban , offering significant opportunities for impactful research and professional growth. We pride ourselves on a collaborative and innovative research culture, supporting scientific exploration and practical application.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the synthesis and characterization of novel advanced polymer materials.
• Develop and implement advanced characterization techniques (e.g., GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, SEM, TEM) to analyze material properties.
• Investigate structure‑property relationships and utilize this knowledge to design polymers with desired performance characteristics.
• Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to ensure successful translation of materials research into practical applications.
• Mentor and guide junior scientists and technicians in the laboratory.
• Prepare technical reports, research papers for publication, and present findings at scientific meetings.
• Manage laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and patent applications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant post-doctoral or industrial research experience in polymer science.
• Demonstrated expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Proven ability to design and conduct complex experimental investigations.
• Strong knowledge of polymer physics and engineering principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with data analysis software and scientific visualization tools.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a retirement savings plan.
• Employees have access to advanced laboratory equipment and resources.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending national and international conferences, are provided.
• The role is based in our modern facility in Durban , offering a stimulating work environment.
• We foster a culture of innovation and collaboration.
• Paid time off and opportunities for career advancement within a leading research organization are integral to our compensation package.