Senior Materials Scientist - Polymer Research

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health and retirement benefits

Professional development and training

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Materials Scientist to lead its polymer research division in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on developing novel polymers and processing methods, guiding a team of scientists, and contributing to IP and publications.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD with 7+ years in polymer science, excels in characterization techniques, and collaborates across engineering and product teams to translate research into commercial solutions in a Durban-based setting.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant industrial or academic research experience in polymer science.
• Demonstrated expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and structure–property relationships.
• Proficiency with various polymer characterization techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of polymer processing methods (e.g., extrusion, injection molding).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor junior team members.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work in a team-based environment in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on the synthesis, characterization, and application of novel polymers.
• Develop and optimize polymer formulations and processing techniques to achieve desired material properties.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques to characterize materials.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate research findings into commercial applications.
• Mentor and supervise junior scientists and technicians within the polymer research group.
• Stay updated on the latest scientific advancements and emerging technologies in polymer science.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Contribute to patent applications and scientific publications.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Structure–property relations

Polymer processing

Team leadership

Mentoring

Collaboration

Analytical thinking

Education

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

Tools

Spectroscopy

Microscopy

Thermal analysis

Mechanical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading research and development organization specializing in advanced materials, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Materials Scientist to lead their polymer research division in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA. This role is crucial for driving innovation in polymer science, focusing on the development of novel materials with enhanced properties for a range of industrial applications. The ideal candidate will possess a deep theoretical understanding and extensive practical experience in polymer chemistry, characterization, and processing. You will be responsible for managing research projects, guiding a team of scientists, and contributing to our client's intellectual property portfolio. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact in a dynamic research environment, working on cutting-edge projects in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on the synthesis, characterization, and application of novel polymers.
• Develop and optimize polymer formulations and processing techniques to achieve desired material properties.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, microscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing) to characterize materials.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers and product developers, to translate research findings into commercial applications.
• Mentor and supervise junior scientists and technicians within the polymer research group.
• Stay updated on the latest scientific advancements and emerging technologies in polymer science.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Contribute to patent applications and scientific publications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant industrial or academic research experience in polymer science.
• Demonstrated expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization, and structure-property relationships.
• Proficiency with various polymer characterization techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of polymer processing methods (e.g., extrusion, injection molding).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor junior team members.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work in a team-based environment in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and performance-based incentives. Employees have access to world-class research facilities and cutting-edge equipment. We are committed to employee development, providing opportunities for continuous learning, professional training, and attendance at international conferences. This position offers the chance to work in a stimulating and collaborative environment in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA, contributing to significant advancements in materials science.