Senior Research Chemist - Materials Science

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Growth opportunities

Generous paid time off

Access to cutting-edge facilities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Senior Research Chemist to join its Materials Science research group in Rustenburg. You will lead experimental design, synthesis, and characterization of novel materials with advanced properties for industrial applications.

Responsibilities include collaboration with engineering and product teams, driving intellectual property development, and overseeing laboratory operations.

Qualifications

• PhD required in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive chemical R&D experience in materials science.
• Strong expertise in synthesis, polymers, or catalysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, synthesis, and characterization of novel materials.
• Perform advanced material analysis using spectroscopic/analytical techniques.
• Scale-up synthesis procedures for potential industrial application.
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to translate findings into solutions.
• Prepare technical reports, patents, and publications.
• Manage laboratory operations, safety, and equipment maintenance.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Inorganic synthesis

Polymer chemistry

Catalysis

Materials analysis

Project management

Scientific writing & presentation

Education

PhD in Chemistry or Materials Science

Tools

NMR

Mass Spectrometry

XRD

SEM

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Senior Research Chemist to join their pioneering Materials Science research group in Rustenburg . This role is critical for driving innovation in the development of novel materials with advanced properties for various industrial applications. You will be responsible for leading experimental design, synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation of new chemical compounds and materials. Working in a collaborative, state-of-the-art laboratory, you will contribute significantly to the company's intellectual property portfolio and technological advancements. This position offers an excellent platform for a seasoned chemist to exert influence on research direction and product development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel chemical compounds and materials.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of material properties using advanced spectroscopic and analytical techniques (e.g., NMR, Mass Spectrometry, XRD, SEM).
• Optimize synthesis procedures and scale-up processes for potential industrial application.
• Collaborate with engineering and product development teams to translate research findings into tangible solutions.
• Author technical reports, patents, and scientific publications to disseminate research outcomes.
• Manage laboratory operations, including inventory, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in chemical research and development, specifically in materials science .
• Demonstrated expertise in organic or inorganic synthesis, polymer chemistry, or catalysis.
• Proficiency with a wide range of analytical and characterization techniques relevant to materials.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to lead independent research projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to publish and present research.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary and annual performance-based incentive program.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities in Rustenburg and collaboration opportunities with industry leaders.