Senior Research Scientist - Advanced Materials

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive health and wellness

Continuous professional development

State-of-the-art facilities

Hybrid work model

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Research Scientist in Centurion, Gauteng, to lead cutting-edge materials research from concept to tangible outcomes. You will drive projects, mentor junior researchers, and contribute to IP development in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

The role requires a PhD with 5+ years of experience in materials science and hands-on expertise in advanced characterization techniques, synthesis, and processing.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• 5+ years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in materials science with a proven track record.
• Expertise in polymer science, nanotechnology, ceramics, or composites.

Responsibilities

• Spearhead independent research initiatives in novel material synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation.
• Design and execute complex experimental protocols with attention to accuracy and safety.
• Analyze and interpret data, propose future research directions.
• Prepare technical reports and papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals; present to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with engineers, chemists, and physicists to integrate material solutions into product development.
• Stay abreast of advancements through literature reviews and conferences.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to laboratory best practices.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets to ensure completion.

Skills

Independent researcher

Data analysis

Scientific writing

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related field

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

XPS

DSC

TGA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovation hub in the Scientific Research & Development sector, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Scientist to join their dynamic team. This pivotal role is based in the vibrant city of Centurion, Gauteng , and will focus on pioneering new frontiers in advanced materials science. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving projects from conceptualization through to tangible outcomes, contributing significantly to the company's research pipeline and intellectual property portfolio. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies and collaborate with world-class scientists and engineers in a stimulating research environment. The role demands a proactive approach, strong analytical skills, and a passion for scientific discovery and application.

Key Responsibilities

• Spearhead independent research initiatives in novel material synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation.
• Design and execute complex experimental protocols, ensuring accuracy, reproducibility, and adherence to safety standards.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, drawing insightful conclusions and proposing further research directions.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, research papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals, and compelling presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineers, chemists, and physicists, to integrate material solutions into broader product development efforts.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and trends in materials science and related fields through literature review and conference participation.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the development of laboratory best practices.
• Manage project timelines, resources, and budgets effectively to ensure successful project completion.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry research experience in materials science, with a proven track record of successful research outcomes.
• Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the following areas: polymer science, nanotechnology, ceramics, or composites.
• Proficiency in advanced characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, DSC, TGA, and spectroscopic methods.
• Strong theoretical understanding and practical experience in material synthesis and processing.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a rigorous, systematic approach to research.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Experience with computational modeling and simulation tools is a plus.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research setting.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous annual salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Employees have access to continuous professional development opportunities, including funding for conferences and further training.
• The company fosters a culture of innovation and provides state-of-the-art research facilities.
• A supportive work environment that encourages work-life balance is a cornerstone of our client's philosophy.
• Additionally, the hybrid work model allows for flexibility, blending in-office collaboration with remote work arrangements.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization are abundant.