Senior Materials Scientist - Polymer Synthesis

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation support to Richards Bay

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Materials Scientist to drive R&D in novel polymer synthesis at our Richards Bay facility. You will design, synthesize, and characterize advanced polymers for industrial applications, translating research into scalable processes.

You will lead polymerization development, utilize GPC/NMR/DSC/TGA/FTIR, and collaborate with engineering and product teams to ensure material suitability and performance. A PhD with 6+ years in polymer chemistry is required.

Qualifications

• PhD in a related field required (Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science or Chemical Engineering).
• 6+ years of polymer synthesis and characterization experience, preferably in industrial R&D.
• Expertise in multiple polymerization techniques (free radical, condensation, living).
• Proficient in polymer characterization methods and structure-property analysis.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaborative skills; publication record a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, synthesis, and characterization of novel polymers with tailored properties.
• Develop and optimize polymerization processes and reaction conditions.
• Use advanced techniques (GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR) to characterize polymers.
• Explore structure-property relationships to guide material design.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams for application suitability.
• Scale-up formulations from lab to pilot plant; troubleshoot issues.
• Prepare technical reports, summaries, and patent disclosures.
• Stay current with advances in polymer science and technology.
• Contribute to the company’s IP portfolio.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Polymerization techniques

Structure-property relationships

Analytical problem solving

Team collaboration

Technical reporting

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry / Materials Science / Chemical Engineering

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

FTIR

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leader in advanced materials innovation, is seeking an experienced Senior Materials Scientist to drive research and development in novel polymer synthesis. This role is integral to creating next-generation materials for industrial applications. The successful candidate will work in our advanced research laboratories located in **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**, contributing to a pipeline of innovative products. We are looking for a dedicated and creative scientist with a strong background in polymer chemistry and a proven ability to translate research into tangible outcomes. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing team and make a significant impact in the field of materials science within the vibrant industrial hub of **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel polymers with tailored properties.
• Develop and optimize polymerization processes and reaction conditions.
• Utilize advanced analytical techniques (e.g., GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR) to characterize polymer structure and properties.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to guide material design.
• Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to ensure material suitability for specific applications.
• Scale-up promising polymer formulations from laboratory to pilot plant production.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and provide technical guidance to junior researchers.
• Prepare technical reports, research summaries, and patent disclosures.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in polymer science and technology.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio of the company.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in polymer synthesis and characterization, preferably in an industrial R&D setting.
• Demonstrated expertise in various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, condensation, living polymerization).
• Proficiency with a range of polymer characterization methods.
• Strong understanding of polymer physics and mechanical properties.
• Experience with scale-up processes is advantageous.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and analytical skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple projects.
• A publication record in relevant scientific journals is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a performance-based bonus structure, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage. A generous retirement savings plan, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development, including attendance at industry conferences and specialized training, are provided. Our **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA** facility boasts state-of-the-art research capabilities. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment that promotes work-life balance. Relocation assistance to **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA** is available for qualified candidates. Join our team and contribute to shaping the future of advanced materials.