Senior Research Scientist - Materials Science

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary and benefits

Relocation assistance may be available

Job summary

Placements24 client in Johannesburg seeks a Senior Research Scientist in Materials Science for a hybrid role combining hands-on laboratory work and remote research. You will lead projects, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to publications and IP development.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD with 8+ years of post-doctoral experience, expertise in SEM/TEM/XRD/spectroscopy, and strong analytical and collaborative skills to drive technological advancements.

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in materials science.
• Proven expertise in materials characterization techniques (SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy).
• Demonstrated success in leading research projects and publishing in high-impact journals.
• Experience with computational materials modeling and simulation is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and interpret complex experiments related to materials synthesis, characterization, and performance testing.
• Develop and implement advanced materials science methodologies and analytical techniques.
• Lead and manage research projects from conception to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
• Analyze experimental data using statistical and computational tools, drawing meaningful conclusions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate research findings into practical applications.
• Mentor and guide junior research staff and interns, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Prepare technical reports and research papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to grant proposals and secure external funding for research initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and laboratory best practices.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Critical thinking

Communication skills

Team leadership

Education

PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics or related field

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

Spectroscopy

Computational modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovation hub and research institution, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Research Scientist specializing in Materials Science to join their state-of-the-art facilities in Johannesburg . This hybrid role allows for a blend of hands-on laboratory work and remote research, analysis, and collaboration, offering flexibility while ensuring critical in-person scientific endeavors. You will be at the forefront of developing novel materials, optimizing existing ones, and conducting rigorous scientific investigations to drive technological advancements across various industries. This position demands a strong theoretical foundation, extensive experimental expertise, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. You will lead research projects, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to publications and intellectual property development. We are looking for an individual with a proven track record of impactful research and a strategic mindset to guide scientific exploration and application. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative, research-intensive environment and possess exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and interpret complex experiments related to materials synthesis, characterization, and performance testing.
• Develop and implement advanced materials science methodologies and analytical techniques.
• Lead and manage research projects from conception to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
• Analyze experimental data using statistical and computational tools, drawing meaningful conclusions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers and product developers, to translate research findings into practical applications.
• Mentor and guide junior research staff and interns, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Prepare technical reports, research papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals, and present findings at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to grant proposals and secure external funding for research initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and laboratory best practices.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in materials science, with a strong focus on novel material development.
• Proven expertise in materials characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy) and data analysis.
• Demonstrated success in leading research projects and publishing in high-impact scientific journals.
• Experience with computational materials modeling and simulation is highly desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and remote research settings.
• Must be able to work from our Johannesburg facility for key experimental and collaborative tasks.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
• Generous annual leave and professional development allowance.
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and equipment.
• Hybrid work model for improved work-life balance.
• Opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in the field.
• Relocation assistance may be available.