Senior Polymer Chemist

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Annual bonus

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Paid time off

Online scientific resources

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Polymer Chemist to lead remote-first R&D in advanced materials and polymer science. You will design, synthesize, and characterize novel polymers, advancing from concept to application within a global, collaborative virtual team.

The role emphasizes deep knowledge of polymer chemistry, synthesis techniques, and structure-property relationships, with responsibility for innovative projects in a remote environment.

Qualifications

• PhD required in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive industry or postdoctoral experience in polymer synthesis and characterization.
• Expertise in polymerization methods and advanced analytical techniques for polymer analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel polymers with specific functionalities and properties using various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, condensation, controlled radical polymerization).
• Characterize synthesized polymers using techniques such as GPC/SEC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR, and rheology.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to optimize polymer performance for target applications.
• Develop and refine polymerization processes to improve yield, molecular weight control, and purity.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including materials engineers and product developers, to translate research findings into viable commercial products.
• Conduct thorough literature reviews to stay informed about the latest advancements in polymer science and identify new research avenues.
• Author technical reports, research proposals, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Present research findings to internal teams and at scientific conferences.
• Troubleshoot synthesis and characterization challenges.
• Ensure a strong focus on safety protocols and best practices within a remote research context.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymerization techniques

GPC/SEC

NMR

DSC

TGA

FTIR

Rheology

ATRP/RAFT

Scientific writing

Remote collaboration

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry or related field

Tools

GPC/SEC instrument

NMR spectrometer

DSC instrument

TGA instrument

FTIR spectrometer

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in advanced materials science and polymer innovation, is seeking a highly experienced and forward-thinking Senior Polymer Chemist to join their remote-first research and development team. This role is critical for designing, synthesizing, and characterizing novel polymers with tailored properties for a wide range of high-performance applications. The successful candidate will leverage their deep understanding of polymer chemistry, synthesis techniques, and structure-property relationships to drive innovation from concept to application. This is an exceptional opportunity for a scientist to make significant contributions in a dynamic and collaborative virtual environment, working on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of materials. Our client is committed to scientific excellence and provides the tools and support necessary for remote researchers to thrive and achieve impactful results.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel polymers with specific functionalities and properties using various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, condensation, controlled radical polymerization).
• Characterize synthesized polymers using techniques such as GPC/SEC, NMR, DSC, TGA, FTIR, and rheology.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to optimize polymer performance for target applications.
• Develop and refine polymerization processes to improve yield, molecular weight control, and purity.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including materials engineers and product developers, to translate research findings into viable commercial products.
• Conduct thorough literature reviews to stay informed about the latest advancements in polymer science and identify new research avenues.
• Author technical reports, research proposals, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Present research findings to internal teams and at scientific conferences.
• Troubleshoot synthesis and characterization challenges.
• Ensure a strong focus on safety protocols and best practices within a remote research context.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive industry or postdoctoral experience in polymer synthesis and characterization.
• Demonstrated expertise in various polymerization methods and advanced analytical techniques for polymer analysis.
• Strong understanding of polymer physics, kinetics, and thermodynamics.
• Experience with controlled polymerization techniques (e.g., ATRP, RAFT) is highly advantageous.
• Proven ability to design and execute complex synthetic projects.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a creative approach to chemical challenges.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in technical writing.
• Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and collaborate proactively in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with computational modeling of polymers is a plus.
• A passion for innovation and discovery in polymer science.

Benefits

• This is a fully remote position offering significant work-life flexibility.
• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with an annual bonus program.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided.
• A robust retirement savings plan with employer matching is available.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including online courses, webinars, and virtual conferences.
• Our client fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration among its remote workforce.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick days, and holidays.
• Access to extensive online scientific resources and collaboration tools.