Senior Materials Scientist - Polymer Research

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Health coverage and benefits

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Materials Scientist with a polymer focus to lead pioneering research in Centurion, Gauteng. The role emphasizes independence, mentorship, and collaboration across cross-functional teams to advance polymer formulations and processing.

The ideal candidate will design and execute experiments, analyze results, and contribute to patents and publications, while driving innovation in a remote-first setting.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or related field.
• 6+ years of hands-on research experience in polymer science and engineering.
• Proficiency with polymer synthesis, characterization techniques, and processing.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on synthesis, characterization, and application of advanced polymeric materials.
• Design experiments to investigate polymer properties, performance, and degradation.
• Develop new polymer formulations and processing techniques for specific applications.
• Use advanced characterization methods to evaluate material properties.
• Collaborate with engineers and product developers to translate findings into products.
• Analyze data and prepare detailed technical reports and presentations.
• Contribute to patents and scientific publications.
• Mentor junior scientists and staff to foster a strong research culture.

Skills

Independent research leadership

Mentoring junior scientists

Excellent written and verbal skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

FTIR

SEM

Job description

About the Role Our client, a forward-thinking research and development firm, is seeking an exceptional Senior Materials Scientist with a specialization in polymer research to join their innovative team. This role is based in **Centurion, Gauteng**, and offers a significant opportunity to drive advancements in polymer science and application. The successful candidate will be responsible for pioneering research into novel polymeric materials, enhancing existing formulations, and developing solutions for a diverse range of industrial challenges. This position is ideal for a scientifically curious and results-oriented individual who thrives in a collaborative environment and is eager to contribute to impactful discoveries in materials science. We are looking for someone who can independently lead research initiatives and mentor junior scientists.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research projects focused on the synthesis, characterization, and application of advanced polymeric materials.
• Design and execute experiments to investigate polymer properties, performance, and degradation mechanisms.
• Develop new polymer formulations and processing techniques to meet specific application requirements.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, microscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing) to evaluate material properties.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers and product developers, to translate research findings into viable products.
• Analyze experimental data, draw conclusions, and prepare detailed technical reports and presentations.
• Contribute to patent applications and scientific publications.
• Mentor junior scientists and technical staff, fostering a strong research culture.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on research experience in polymer science and engineering.
• Expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization (e.g., GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR, SEM), and processing.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and delivering complex research projects.
• Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymeric materials.
• Experience with computational modeling and simulation of polymers is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead research initiatives.
• A passion for innovation and a commitment to scientific excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive compensation package designed to attract top talent, including a substantial salary and potential for performance-based incentives. Benefits include comprehensive health coverage, opportunities for ongoing professional development, and access to cutting-edge research equipment. This role, situated in **Centurion, Gauteng**, provides a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment. We are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and supporting the career aspirations of our team members. This is a remote-first role, allowing for flexibility in your work location.