Senior Physicist - Experimental Condensed Matter

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan with company-m

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Physicist to join a leading research institution in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will design and conduct advanced experiments in condensed matter physics, mentor junior researchers, and collaborate with a world-class team to push the boundaries of materials science.

The role requires a PhD in Physics and at least six years of post‑doctoral or industry experience, with strong data analysis skills in LabVIEW, Python, and MATLAB.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, specialising in Condensed Matter or closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of post‑doctoral or industry research experience in experimental condensed matter physics.
• Proficiency in data acquisition and analysis software (LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB).
• Experience with designing and executing complex experimental setups (cryostats, high magnetic fields, vacuum systems).
• Strong understanding of quantum mechanics, solid-state physics and statistical mechanics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Responsibilities

• Design, construct, and conduct advanced experimental investigations in condensed matter physics.
• Develop and implement novel experimental techniques and methodologies.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data using statistical and computational tools.
• Collaborate with theorists and material scientists to guide models.
• Lead research projects, manage timelines, and mentor junior researchers.
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Ensure safe and efficient operation of laboratory equipment and facilities.
• Stay current with advancements in condensed matter physics and experimental techniques.
• Contribute to grant proposals and funding applications.
• Maintain meticulous records of procedures and results.

Skills

LabVIEW

Python

MATLAB

Education

PhD in Physics (Condensed Matter)

Tools

Cryostats

High magnetic fields

Vacuum systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering research institution, is seeking a Senior Physicist with expertise in Experimental Condensed Matter to join their state-of-the-art laboratories in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This role is essential for advancing fundamental understanding and developing novel applications in the field of materials science and solid-state physics. The Senior Physicist will lead experimental investigations, design complex setups, and interpret sophisticated data to uncover new physical phenomena. We are looking for an individual with a profound theoretical background, exceptional experimental skills, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact research and collaborate with a team of world-class scientists in the vibrant Vereeniging, Gauteng area. The focus is on generating groundbreaking discoveries that can lead to technological innovations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, construct, and conduct advanced experimental investigations in condensed matter physics.
• Develop and implement novel experimental techniques and methodologies.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data using sophisticated statistical and computational tools.
• Collaborate with theoretical physicists and material scientists to interpret experimental results and guide theoretical models.
• Lead research projects, manage timelines, and mentor junior physicists and research assistants.
• Publish research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
• Ensure the safe and efficient operation of experimental equipment and laboratory facilities.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in condensed matter physics and experimental techniques.
• Contribute to the development of grant proposals and secure research funding.
• Maintain meticulous records of experimental procedures and results.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, specializing in Condensed Matter Physics or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in experimental condensed matter physics.
• Demonstrated expertise in areas such as superconductivity, magnetism, topological materials, or low-temperature physics.
• Proven experience in designing and executing complex experimental setups (e.g., using cryostats, high magnetic fields, vacuum systems).
• Proficiency in data acquisition and analysis software (e.g., LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB).
• Strong understanding of quantum mechanics, solid-state physics, and statistical mechanics.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a meticulous, detail-oriented approach.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team environment.
• Experience with synchrotron radiation or neutron scattering techniques is a plus.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive salary, a performance-based bonus system, and a comprehensive benefits package, including excellent health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans with company matching, and generous paid time off. We offer significant opportunities for professional development, including funding for conferences, workshops, and continuous learning. This role in Vereeniging, Gauteng is situated within a supportive research environment with access to world-class facilities. We are committed to fostering scientific excellence and career growth for our employees.