Senior Nanomaterials Scientist - Energy Storage

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance bonuses

Relocation assistance

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Nanomaterials Scientist to lead R&D on next‑generation nanomaterials for high‑performance energy storage in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will oversee projects, drive synthesis/characterization efforts, and guide translation from discovery to prototype devices.

You will apply TEM/SEM, XPS, Raman, and electrochemical testing, mentor researchers, publish results, and contribute to strategic direction in a fast‑paced industrial research environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related field with nanomaterials or energy storage focus.
• Minimum 6 years post-doctoral or industrial research in nanomaterial synthesis/characterization.
• Hands-on experience with sol-gel, hydrothermal, CVD and advanced characterization tools.
• Strong understanding of electrochemical principles and battery/supercapacitor testing.
• Proven ability to lead research projects and publish results.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, synthesis, and characterization of novel nanomaterials for energy storage.
• Use TEM/SEM, XPS, Raman and electrochemical testing to analyze material properties.
• Develop scalable synthesis methods for promising nanomaterials.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate materials into prototype devices.
• Analyze data, interpret results and steer future research directions.
• Manage research projects including timelines, budgets, and resources.

Skills

Leadership

Scientific writing

Data analysis

Collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science or related field

Tools

TEM/SEM

XPS

Raman spectroscopy

Electrochemical testing

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a globally recognized leader in advanced materials research, with a focus on sustainable energy solutions. We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Nanomaterials Scientist to join our innovative R&D team based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is pivotal in driving the development of next-generation nanomaterials for high-performance energy storage devices, such as advanced batteries and supercapacitors. You will lead research projects, conduct rigorous experimental work, and translate fundamental scientific discoveries into tangible technological advancements. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of materials science, particularly in synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials, with a proven ability to work effectively in a fast-paced industrial research environment. Join us in shaping the future of clean energy from our cutting-edge facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel nanomaterials for energy storage applications.
• Utilize advanced techniques such as electron microscopy (TEM, SEM), spectroscopy (XPS, Raman), and electrochemical testing to analyze material properties.
• Develop scalable synthesis methods for promising nanomaterials.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate nanomaterials into prototype energy storage devices.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and provide strategic direction for future research.
• Manage research projects, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Contribute to patent applications and publications in high-impact scientific journals.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a culture of scientific excellence.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field with a specialization in nanomaterials or energy storage.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant post-doctoral or industrial research experience in nanomaterial synthesis and characterization.
• Extensive hands-on experience with synthesis techniques (e.g., sol-gel, hydrothermal, CVD) and advanced characterization tools.
• Strong understanding of electrochemical principles and experience with battery or supercapacitor testing.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, with experience in materials modeling being a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of publications.
• Problem-solving aptitude and a proactive approach to research challenges.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance bonuses. Employees have access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and ample opportunities for professional growth, including attending international conferences. The position is based in the vibrant coastal city of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a unique lifestyle balance. Relocation assistance is available for successful candidates. Be part of a pioneering team making significant contributions to sustainable energy technology.