Senior Materials Scientist - Polymer Research

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybride; ZAR 1 000 000 - 1 600 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plans

Hybrid work model

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist specializing in polymer research in Bloemfontein, Free State. This hybrid role focuses on designing, synthesizing, characterizing, and evaluating advanced polymers for packaging, composites and biomedical devices.

The candidate will lead experiments, collaborate with colleagues, and mentor junior scientists while contributing to strategic planning and publication activity. PhD required with extensive polymer expertise.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a polymer-related field.
• >5 years post-PhD or industry experience in polymer science/engineering.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.

Responsabilités

• Lead R&D on synthesis and modification of novel polymers.
• Characterize polymer structure, properties, and performance using advanced analytical techniques.
• Design experiments to optimize formulations and processing conditions.
• Evaluate polymer performance in target applications and troubleshoot challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineers and product developers.
• Stay updated on advancements in polymer science and market trends.
• Author research papers, patents and technical reports.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to project planning.

Connaissances

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Polymer processing

Structure-property relationships

Analytical thinking

Scientific report writing

Presentation skills

Team collaboration

Formation

PhD in Polymer Science/Materials Science/Polymer Chemistry

Outils

GPC

DSC

TGA

NMR

FTIR

Rheology

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leader in materials innovation and scientific research, is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist specializing in polymer research. This role is central to developing advanced polymeric materials with tailored properties for diverse applications, including sustainable packaging, advanced composites, and biomedical devices. Located in the judicial capital, Bloemfontein, Free State , we offer a stimulating hybrid work environment that combines collaborative in-office R&D with the flexibility of remote work. You will play a key role in material design, synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of polymer chemistry and physics, combined with strong experimental and analytical skills, and a passion for creating next-generation materials. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to impactful projects and advance your career within a dedicated research team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research and development initiatives focused on the synthesis and modification of novel polymers.
• Characterize polymer structure, properties, and performance using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR, FTIR, Rheology).
• Design and conduct experiments to optimize polymer formulations and processing conditions.
• Evaluate polymer performance in target applications and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineers and product development specialists.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and market trends in polymer science and engineering.
• Author research papers, patent applications, and technical reports.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to project planning and strategy.

Requirements

• PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in polymer science and engineering.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and processing.
• Hands-on experience with a range of polymer characterization techniques is essential.
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymers.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in scientific report writing and presentation.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and manage research projects, with experience in hybrid work settings.
• Knowledge of computational modeling of polymers is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, and retirement savings plans. Employees benefit from a professional and collaborative environment in Bloemfontein, Free State , with opportunities for continued learning and development. Our hybrid work model supports work-life integration. Join us to make a meaningful contribution to the field of polymer science and materials innovation.