Senior Research Fellow - Material Science

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Research facilities

Conference funding

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Fellow to join the Mossel Bay-based Material Science team, leading innovative research into new materials for renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. You will guide independent projects, mentor postgraduate researchers, and publish in leading journals within a collaborative, well-funded environment.

The role emphasizes leadership, rigorous experimentation, and the development of impactful materials science knowledge, with access to world-class

Qualifications

• PhD in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant research experience post-PhD with a strong publication record.
• Demonstrated expertise in material synthesis, characterization, and performance testing for energy/manufacturing.
• Proficiency with advanced characterization techniques and data analysis methodologies.
• Proven ability to secure research funding and manage projects.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization, design, and execution of novel research projects in material science.
• Synthesize, characterize, and evaluate new materials for energy and manufacturing applications.
• Conduct in-depth material property analyses using advanced techniques (SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy).
• Develop theoretical models and simulations to guide experiments.
• Publish high-impact papers and present findings at conferences.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers and postgraduate students.

Skills

Research leadership

Publications track record

Mentoring

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Material Science/Related

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

Spectroscopy

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly innovative and driven Senior Research Fellow to join their distinguished Material Science department in Mossel Bay . This role focuses on pioneering research into new materials with applications in renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. You will lead independent research projects, mentor postgraduate students and junior researchers, and publish high-impact findings in leading scientific journals. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned materials scientist to contribute significantly to groundbreaking research in a supportive and resource-rich academic and industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of novel research projects in material science.
• Synthesize, characterize, and evaluate the performance of new materials, focusing on areas such as polymers, composites, or nanomaterials.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of material properties using advanced characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy).
• Develop theoretical models and simulations to understand material behavior and guide experimental design.
• Author high-quality research papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and students, fostering their research development.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant research experience post-Ph.D., with a strong publication record in leading material science journals.
• Demonstrated expertise in material synthesis, characterization, and performance testing relevant to energy or manufacturing applications.
• Proficiency with advanced characterization techniques and data analysis methodologies.
• Proven ability to secure research funding and manage research projects effectively.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Support for professional development, including conference attendance and training courses.
• Access to world-class research facilities and equipment in Mossel Bay . A stimulating and collaborative research environment conducive to innovation.