Senior Research & Development Architect (Materials Science)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Paid leave

Study leave

Professional development

Conference participation

Relocation assistance

State-of-the-art facilities

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley, Northern Cape, seeks a Senior Research & Development Architect in Materials Science to lead advanced projects translating novel materials into industrial applications. The role requires a Ph.D.

in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, at least eight years of post-doctoral R&D, and a proven record of publications or patents. You will supervise researchers, design experiments, and collaborate across disciplines in a state-of-the-art

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering.
• ≥8 years post-doctoral R&D in materials science.
• Proven publications and/or patents in a relevant area.
• Experience with material synthesis, characterization, and testing.
• Strong leadership and collaboration capabilities.
• Ability to translate research into practical applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct advanced research projects in materials science and engineering.
• Develop and characterize novel materials for specific applications.
• Design and execute experiments to test material performance.
• Analyze data using statistical and computational methods.
• Collaborate with cross-functional researchers and engineers.
• Contribute to IP through patents and publications.
• Stay current with literature and tech advancements.
• Manage budgets and timelines for projects.
• Mentor junior researchers and lab staff.
• Prepare reports, proposals, and presentations.

Skills

Data analysis

Computational modeling

Leadership

Research planning

Communication

Education

PhD in Materials Science/Metallurgy/CHEng/ME

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

Spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge industrial research institution located in **Kimberley, Northern Cape**, is seeking a highly innovative Senior Research & Development Architect specializing in Materials Science. This critical role focuses on the exploration, development, and application of novel materials for advanced industrial and technological purposes. You will lead research projects, collaborate with a team of scientists and engineers, and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries that push the boundaries of material capabilities. The ideal candidate possesses a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Engineering, or a closely related field, coupled with extensive experience in research and development, particularly in areas like advanced composites, nanotechnology, or sustainable materials. This position requires hands- on laboratory work, data analysis, and the ability to translate research findings into practical applications. You will be instrumental in driving innovation within the **Northern Cape**'s industrial research sector. The role involves significant laboratory-based work and may require occasional travel for conferences and collaborations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct advanced research projects in materials science and engineering.
• Develop and characterize novel materials with desired properties for specific applications.
• Design and execute experiments to test material performance under various conditions.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data using statistical and computational methods.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams of researchers, engineers, and technicians.
• Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through patent applications and publications.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific literature and technological advancements in materials science.
• Manage research budgets and timelines for assigned projects.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and laboratory staff.
• Prepare technical reports, research proposals, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety protocols and best practices.
• Translate research findings into potential commercial or industrial applications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in materials science R&D.
• Proven track record of successful research projects, publications, and/or patents in a relevant area.
• Expertise in material synthesis, characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy), and performance testing.
• Strong understanding of material behavior, structure-property relationships, and failure analysis.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and computational modeling tools.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research teams and manage projects effectively.
• Experience in industry R&D or applied research is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of specific material classes such as polymers, ceramics, metals, composites, or nanomaterials.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Generous annual leave and study leave allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development, conference participation, and further training.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.
• Stimulating and collaborative research environment.
• Opportunity to contribute to significant scientific and industrial advancements.
• Relocation assistance available for successful candidates.