Senior Polymer Scientist: Lead Next-Gen Materials Research

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical insurance

Professional development opportunities

Access to premier laboratories

Collaborative research culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Polymer Science to lead the development of next‑generation polymer materials in Vereeniging. You will conduct hands‑on experiments and drive discoveries into tangible product improvements.

The role requires guiding research projects, mentoring staff, and collaborating with engineers to deliver polymer‑based solutions, with strong emphasis on communication and publication of findings.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in polymer R&D with focus on polymer materials.
• Hands-on experience with polymer synthesis and characterization techniques (GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR) and mechanical testing.
• Able to independently manage research projects and troubleshoot complex scientific challenges.
• Experience with polymer processing is a plus and strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on synthesis, characterization and application of novel polymers.
• Design and execute experiments to evaluate polymer properties (mechanical, thermal, rheological, chemical).
• Utilize advanced analytical and processing equipment relevant to polymer science.
• Collaborate with engineers and product teams to develop polymer solutions for new products.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians and review research outputs.
• Prepare technical reports, papers, and patent applications documenting findings.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Mechanical testing

Hands-on experimentation

Leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Polymer Science

Tools

GPC

DSC

TGA

NMR

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Polymer Science to lead the development of next‑generation polymer materials in Vereeniging. You will conduct hands‑on experiments and drive discoveries into tangible product improvements.

The role requires guiding research projects, mentoring staff, and collaborating with engineers to deliver polymer‑based solutions, with strong emphasis on communication and publication of findings.