Senior Research Fellow - Polymer Chemistry and Engineering

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health coverage

Retirement planning

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Research Fellow in Polymer Chemistry and Engineering for a fully remote role. Lead innovative polymer design, synthesis, and application across advanced composites, biomaterials, and sustainable packaging from any preferred location.

Mentor junior researchers and collaborate with an international network of scientists. You will drive independent projects, publish in top journals, and contribute to securing external funding, all within a highly collaborative remote

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or equivalent research experience demonstrating significant contributions to polymer science.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis techniques and polymer characterization methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of cutting-edge research projects in polymer chemistry and engineering.
• Synthesize and characterize novel polymers, including controlled polymerization techniques, functionalization, and blending.
• Investigate structure-property relationships of polymeric materials using advanced analytical techniques (GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR, FTIR).
• Develop and optimize processing methods for polymers (extrusion, molding, 3D printing, film casting).
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to explore new applications in aerospace, biomedical devices, and energy.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.
• Mentor postgraduate students and postdocs; contribute to securing external funding.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Remote collaboration

Independent research

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry

Tools

GPC

NMR

FTIR

DSC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a world-renowned research institution focused on advanced materials and sustainable solutions, is seeking a Senior Research Fellow specializing in Polymer Chemistry and Engineering. This is a fully remote opportunity, allowing you to contribute your expertise from your preferred location. You will be instrumental in driving innovation in the design, synthesis, and application of novel polymeric materials for diverse fields such as advanced composites, biomaterials, and sustainable packaging. The role involves leading independent research projects, mentoring junior researchers, and collaborating with an international network of scientists and engineers. This position offers a unique chance to shape the future of polymer science and make significant contributions to technologically relevant areas. We are dedicated to fostering a highly collaborative and intellectually stimulating remote environment where groundbreaking research in polymer chemistry can flourish. Join our team and help us redefine the possibilities of polymer engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and execution of cutting-edge research projects in polymer chemistry and engineering.
• Synthesize and characterize novel polymers, including controlled polymerization techniques, functionalization, and blending.
• Investigate the structure-property relationships of polymeric materials using advanced analytical techniques (e.g., GPC, DSC, TGA, NMR, FTIR, SEM, TEM).
• Develop and optimize processing methods for polymeric materials, such as extrusion, injection molding, 3D printing, and film casting.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to explore new applications for advanced polymers in areas like aerospace, biomedical devices, and energy.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at leading international conferences.
• Mentor and guide postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers in polymer science.
• Contribute to securing external research funding through proposal writing and networking.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or equivalent research experience demonstrating significant contributions to the field of polymer science.
• Proven expertise in polymer synthesis techniques (e.g., radical, ionic, condensation polymerization) and polymer characterization methods.
• Strong understanding of polymer mechanics, rheology, and processing technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to independently conceive, design, and execute research projects.
• Excellent track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, crucial for remote collaboration.
• Ability to manage multiple research tasks effectively and work autonomously.
• Passion for scientific inquiry and innovation in polymer engineering and materials science.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive benefits including health coverage and retirement planning.
• Our client is committed to employee development, providing access to virtual training, online learning platforms, and opportunities to engage with a global scientific community.
• We foster a flexible work environment that prioritizes work-life balance and encourages impactful scientific research.
• Embrace this opportunity to advance polymer chemistry and engineering from your Mossel Bay location, contributing to globally significant innovations.