Senior Materials Scientist: Composites & Advanced Materials

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Paid leave

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to lead the development of advanced composite materials for demanding industrial applications. You will design, characterize, and apply novel materials, translating research into tangible innovations within a state‑of‑the‑art laboratory environment.

The role requires a PhD with a minimum of six years in materials R&D, strong experience in material characterization, synthesis, and processing, and excellent collaboration and

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field required and demonstrated expertise in materials science.
• Minimum 6 years of industry R&D experience in composites or related materials.
• Strong background in material characterization techniques and data interpretation.
• Experience with synthesis, processing, and design of advanced materials.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on advanced composite materials (polymers, ceramics, metals).
• Characterize material properties using SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC and mechanical testing.
• Develop and optimize synthesis and processing methods for new materials.
• Collaborate with design/manufacturing to ensure manufacturability and performance.
• Conduct failure analysis and root-cause investigations for material issues.
• Manage lab equipment and ensure safety compliance.
• Stay updated on new trends in materials science.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications.

Skills

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Project management

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field

Tools

FEA software

Job description

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to lead the development of advanced composite materials for demanding industrial applications. You will design, characterize, and apply novel materials, translating research into tangible innovations within a state‑of‑the‑art laboratory environment.

The role requires a PhD with a minimum of six years in materials R&D, strong experience in material characterization, synthesis, and processing, and excellent collaboration and