Senior Research Scientist - Chemistry

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health, dental, and vision coverage

Professional development allowance

Collaborative R&D environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Klerksdorp to lead innovative chemistry projects within the R&D team. The role emphasizes mentoring junior scientists, managing complex experiments, and ensuring scientific integrity across programs.

You will drive research in organic, inorganic, or physical chemistry, design labs, analyze data, and contribute to new products and processes in a collaborative, state-of-the-art environment.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field required.
• 5-7 years of progressive research experience.
• Experience in synthetic chemistry and reaction optimization.
• Strong communication and mentoring abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects in organic, inorganic, or physical chemistry.
• Design and conduct laboratory experiments, including synthesis, purification, and characterization.
• Analyze data, interpret results, and guide further research efforts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate findings.
• Mentor junior researchers and publish/patent outcomes.
• Prepare technical reports and manuscripts detailing methodologies.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Spectroscopic characterization

Problem-solving

NMR

MS

IR

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry

Tools

NMR

MS

IR

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Senior Research Scientist with a strong background in general Chemistry to join their dynamic R&D team in Klerksdorp . This position involves leading innovative research initiatives, designing and executing complex chemical experiments, and contributing to the development of new products and processes. You will play a key role in mentoring junior scientists, managing research projects, and ensuring the scientific integrity of all undertaken work. This is an exciting opportunity to make significant contributions to chemical innovation within a leading organization in Klerksdorp .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects in areas such as organic synthesis, inorganic chemistry, or physical chemistry.
• Design and conduct laboratory experiments, including synthesis, purification, and characterization of chemical compounds.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and develop conclusions to guide further research efforts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering and product development, to integrate research findings.
• Mentor and guide junior research chemists, fostering their scientific growth and development.
• Author technical reports, publications, and patent applications detailing research outcomes and methodologies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field (e.g., Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry).
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive research experience, demonstrating a strong track record in chemical research.
• Extensive experience in synthetic chemistry, reaction optimization, and spectroscopic characterization techniques (NMR, MS, IR).
• Proven ability to independently design, conduct, and interpret complex chemical experiments.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a thorough understanding of chemical principles.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting scientific information.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous allowance for professional development, including conferences and training.
• A collaborative research environment that encourages innovation and scientific exploration in Klerksdorp .
• Access to state-of-the‑art laboratory facilities and equipment.