Senior Nanomaterials Scientist

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

State-of-the-art facilities

Health, dental, vision insurance

Professional development

Annual leave & retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Nanomaterials Scientist to lead the development and application of novel nanomaterials in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The role focuses on designing, synthesizing, characterizing, and scaling production for industrial use, while mentoring staff and publishing findings.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage projects and stay at the forefront of nanomaterials science, contributing to cutting-edge technological solutions.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in nanomaterials synthesis and characterization.
• Demonstrated expertise in graphene, quantum dots, nanoparticles or nanocomposites.
• Proficiency in advanced characterization techniques (TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS, AFM).
• Strong publication record and ability to lead research projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, synthesis, characterization, and testing of new nanomaterials with tailored properties.
• Develop and optimize scalable production methods for nanomaterials for industrial applications.
• Analyze material performance, failure mechanisms, and improvements.
• Mentor junior research staff and foster scientific rigor.
• Collaborate with engineers and product developers to integrate nanomaterials into products.
• Present research at international conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.
• Oversee laboratory operations, safety compliance, and best practices.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to achieve objectives.
• Stay abreast of global advances in nanomaterials science and technology.

Skills

Graphene

Quantum dots

Nanoparticles

Nanocomposites

Education

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

Tools

TEM

SEM

XRD

XPS

AFM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering entity in advanced materials research, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Nanomaterials Scientist to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is pivotal in driving innovation in the development and application of novel nanomaterials for cutting-edge technological solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of material science principles, particularly at the nanoscale, and a proven track record of leading complex research projects from conception to implementation. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific advancements within a collaborative and supportive environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, characterization, and testing of new nanomaterials with tailored properties.
• Develop and optimize scalable production methods for nanomaterials suitable for industrial applications.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of material performance, failure mechanisms, and potential improvements.
• Manage and mentor junior research staff, fostering a culture of scientific rigor and innovation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers and product developers, to integrate nanomaterials into existing and new product lines.
• Prepare and present research findings at international conferences and in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Oversee laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and best practices.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively to achieve research objectives.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in nanomaterials science and technology globally.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in nanomaterials synthesis and characterization.
• Demonstrated expertise in areas such as graphene, quantum dots, nanoparticles, or nanocomposites.
• Proficiency in advanced characterization techniques (e.g., TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS, AFM).
• Strong understanding of theoretical principles underlying nanomaterial behavior.
• Proven experience in managing research projects and leading scientific teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong publication record.
• Experience with computational materials science tools is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.
• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of scientific integrity.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, including performance-based bonuses.
• Employees will have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and cutting-edge equipment.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attendance at international conferences and workshops, are actively supported.
• A generous annual leave allowance and retirement savings plan are included.
• This role also offers a dynamic work environment with significant opportunities for career advancement and the chance to make a tangible impact on the future of materials science in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal .