Senior Research Scientist - Nanotechnology

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Pension fund contribution

Paid time off and sick leave

Conference attendance opportunities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Senior Research Scientist (Nanotechnology) to join its R&D team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead independent projects, mentor junior scientists, and advance nanomaterial synthesis and characterization for coatings, energy storage, and biomedical devices.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in a related field with 6+ years of postdoctoral experience, a strong publication record, and hands-on expertise in nanotools and analytical techniques,

Qualifications

• PhD in Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Chemistry or related field.
• Minimum 6 years postdoctoral research in nanotechnology with publication record.
• Experience in nanomaterial synthesis (e.g., CVD, sol-gel, electrospinning) and surface functionalization.
• Hands-on with advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.
• Proficient in data analysis and scientific visualization software.
• Strong understanding of nanoscale phenomena and applications.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in Richards Bay.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials.
• Design and execute experiments to study nanoscale phenomena.
• Utilize TEM, SEM, AFM, XPS, XRD to analyze nanomaterials.
• Develop fabrication processes for functional nanostructures.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate nanomaterials into prototypes.
• Publish findings and contribute to patents.

Skills

Postdoctoral experience

Nanomaterial synthesis

Data analysis & visualization

Analytical thinking

Communication

Independent & collaborative work

Education

PhD in Nanotechnology/Materials Science/ Chemistry/ Physics

Tools

TEM

SEM

AFM

XPS

XRD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneer in advanced materials and energy solutions, is looking for an exceptional Senior Research Scientist specializing in Nanotechnology to join their dynamic R&D team in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is crucial for advancing the development of novel nanomaterials and their applications in emerging technologies. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of nanoscale phenomena, synthesis techniques, and characterization methods. You will lead independent research projects, contribute to team-based efforts, and mentor junior scientists. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of scientific innovation, contributing to impactful breakthroughs in fields such as advanced coatings, energy storage, and biomedical devices. Our client values curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to scientific rigor. Join us in Richards Bay and help shape the future of nanotechnology.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge research in the synthesis, characterization, and application of nanomaterials.
• Design and execute experiments to investigate nanoscale phenomena and material properties.
• Utilize advanced characterization techniques (e.g., TEM, SEM, AFM, XPS, XRD) to analyze nanomaterials.
• Develop novel fabrication processes for creating functional nanostructures.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate nanomaterials into prototype devices and systems.
• Interpret complex experimental data and contribute to scientific publications and patent applications.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and research trends in nanotechnology and related fields.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns, providing guidance on experimental design and data analysis.
• Contribute to the strategic planning of the research group and the identification of new research avenues.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of postdoctoral research experience in nanotechnology, with a strong publication record in reputable journals.
• Demonstrated expertise in nanomaterial synthesis (e.g., CVD, sol-gel, electrospinning) and surface functionalization.
• Hands-on experience with advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific visualization software.
• Strong understanding of the principles governing nanoscale behavior and its application.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment in Richards Bay .

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of ZAR.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Pension fund contribution.
• Paid time off and sick leave.
• Opportunities for professional growth and conference attendance.
• Access to state-of-the-art nanotechnology research facilities.
• Potential for relocation assistance for the right candidate.