Senior Physicist - Advanced Materials Characterization

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Sur place; ZAR 1 500 000 - 2 100 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Salary package with benefits

Résumé du poste

Placements24 partners with a global leader in Scientific Research & Development to recruit a Senior Physicist focused on Advanced Materials Characterization. The role is based at a state‑of‑the‑art campus in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, and involves probing fundamental properties of novel materials with a sophisticated suite of tools.

You will lead experiments, analyze data, mentor staff, and present findings at conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Materials Science, or related field.
• 5+ years in experimental physics or materials characterization.
• Solid-state physics, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics fundamentals.
• Proficiency with Python and MATLAB; scientific programming experience.
• Publications in peer‑reviewed journals desirable.

Responsabilités

• Design experiments to probe physical properties of advanced materials (electronic, optical, magnetic, mechanical).
• Operate and maintain advanced characterization equipment (SEM, TEM, XRD, AFM, spectroscopy).
• Analyze data, interpret results, and develop physical models.
• Collaborate with scientists to define material specs and targets.
• Mentor junior physicists and present at conferences.

Connaissances

Python

MATLAB

Data analysis

Theoretical modeling

Communication

Formation

PhD in Physics/Materials Science

Outils

Electron microscopy

XRD

AFM

Spectroscopy

Surface science

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in Scientific Research & Development , is seeking an accomplished Senior Physicist with extensive experience in Advanced Materials Characterization. This role is based at their state-of-the-art research campus in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . You will play a pivotal role in investigating the fundamental physical properties of novel materials, utilizing a sophisticated suite of characterization tools. Your expertise will be crucial in understanding material behavior at the atomic and molecular level, guiding the development of next-generation technologies. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on intellectually challenging projects, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers. The focus is on pushing the boundaries of material science through rigorous physical analysis and innovative experimental design. Our client is dedicated to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and providing the resources for impactful research in a prime Western Cape location.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to probe the physical properties of advanced materials (e.g., electronic, optical, magnetic, mechanical).
• Operate and maintain advanced characterization equipment such as electron microscopes (SEM, TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and spectroscopy systems.
• Analyze complex experimental data, interpret results, and develop theoretical models to explain observed phenomena.
• Collaborate with materials scientists and engineers to define material specifications and performance targets.
• Develop new characterization methodologies and protocols to address emerging research questions.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and conclusions in detailed technical reports.
• Present findings to internal teams and at international scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through invention disclosures and patent applications.
• Mentor junior physicists and technical staff, fostering a collaborative research environment.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in condensed matter physics, materials science, and characterization techniques.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in experimental physics or materials characterization, preferably in an R&D setting.
• Deep understanding of solid-state physics, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics.
• Hands-on expertise with multiple advanced materials characterization techniques (e.g., electron microscopy, surface science, spectroscopy, diffraction).
• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., Python, MATLAB) and experience with scientific programming.
• Strong theoretical background and the ability to develop physical models.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a meticulous approach to experimental work.
• Effective communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• A proven publication record in peer-reviewed journals is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and exceptional opportunities for professional growth and development. Employees have access to world-class research facilities and cutting-edge instrumentation in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . Our client supports continuous learning through training programs and conference participation. This role provides the chance to work at the forefront of scientific discovery in a beautiful and academically rich environment. Join a leading research organization dedicated to innovation and scientific excellence.