Senior Research Scientist - Material Science

Placements24; Richards Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health and wellness benefits

Strong retirement savings plan

Generous paid time off

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, invites a Senior Research Scientist in Material Science to lead synthesis, characterization, and development of advanced materials. You will guide projects end-to-end, mentoring researchers while collaborating with engineers to translate discoveries into real-world applications.

The role demands a PhD and 6+ years in R&D with a proven materials development record, strong analytical skills, and effective communication.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant field.
• 6+ years post-doctoral or industrial R&D experience in materials science.
• Proven track record in development and characterization of advanced materials.
• Experience with diverse material classes (polymers, composites, metals, ceramics).
• Hands-on experience with material characterization and testing equipment.
• Strong understanding of materials processing and manufacturing techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and project management experience.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and execution of experiments for synthesis, characterization, and testing of new materials.
• Investigate structure-property relationships in advanced materials.
• Use SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC, TGA to analyze material properties.
• Develop and optimize material processing techniques.
• Collaborate with product teams to translate findings into applications.
• Manage research projects including planning, budgeting, and timelines.
• Write technical reports, papers, and patent applications.
• Present findings to internal stakeholders and conferences.
• Mentor junior researchers and technicians.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols in R&D environment.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Communication skills

Problem solving

Critical thinking

Collaborative work

Education

PhD in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in advanced materials research and development, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Research Scientist specializing in Material Science to join their innovative team based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is critical for driving forward the discovery, development, and characterization of novel materials with superior properties for a wide range of industrial applications. You will be instrumental in leading research projects, from conceptualization to prototype development, and will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge R&D in a dynamic and resource-rich environment, focusing on materials that will shape future technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of experiments for the synthesis, characterization, and testing of new materials.
• Investigate structure-property relationships in advanced materials, including polymers, composites, ceramics, and metals.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC, and TGA to analyze material properties.
• Develop and optimize material processing techniques to achieve desired performance characteristics.
• Collaborate with product development teams to translate laboratory findings into commercially viable applications.
• Manage research projects, including planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and timeline management.
• Write detailed technical reports, research papers, and patent applications.
• Present research findings to internal stakeholders and at international scientific conferences.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers and technicians in the laboratory.
• Ensure adherence to all safety protocols and best practices in the R&D environment.

Requirements

• PhD in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of post-doctoral or industrial R&D experience in materials science.
• Proven track record in the development and characterization of advanced materials.
• Expertise in one or more material classes (e.g., polymers, composites, metals, ceramics).
• Hands‑on experience with a variety of material characterization and testing equipment.
• Strong understanding of materials processing and manufacturing techniques.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience managing research projects.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast‑paced research environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, a strong retirement savings plan, and generous paid time off.
• This position provides significant opportunities for professional growth, including attending leading scientific conferences and engaging in further specialized training.
• The research environment in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal is state‑of‑the‑art, fostering innovation and discovery.
• We believe in work‑life balance and offer a supportive culture.
• Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates.
• Make a lasting impact on the world of materials science.