Senior Research Scientist - Polymer Chemistry

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Advanced instrumentation access

Conference attendance and training

Research collaboration culture

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Polymer Chemistry to lead R&D programs focused on the synthesis and characterization of new polymers and composites. You will guide projects from concept through testing and help translate findings into practical, scalable processes.

You will mentor junior researchers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and stay abreast of trends in polymer science while driving innovative solutions with a focus on industrial applications.

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of industrial or post-doctoral research experience in polymer synthesis and characterization.
• Proven expertise in various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, condensation, living polymerization).
• Proficiency with characterization techniques such as GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, and mechanical testing.
• Demonstrated ability to manage research projects and deliver innovative solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute research programs focused on the synthesis and characterization of new polymers and polymer composites.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to tailor material performance for specific applications.
• Utilize advanced polymerization techniques and analytical methods to evaluate polymer properties.
• Collaborate with product development engineers to translate laboratory findings into scalable manufacturing processes.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging trends in polymer science and engineering.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a positive and productive research culture.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Characterization techniques

Project management

Mentoring

Communication

Education

PhD in Polymer Chemistry

Tools

GPC

NMR

DSC

TGA

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Scientist with expertise in Polymer Chemistry to join their innovative research and development team in Kimberley . This role is central to the development of novel polymeric materials with advanced properties for various industrial applications. You will be responsible for leading research projects, conducting complex synthesis and characterization, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive product innovation. This position offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to shape the future of material science.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute research programs focused on the synthesis and characterization of new polymers and polymer composites.
• Investigate structure-property relationships to tailor material performance for specific applications.
• Utilize advanced polymerization techniques and analytical methods to evaluate polymer properties.
• Collaborate with product development engineers to translate laboratory findings into scalable manufacturing processes.
• Stay current with scientific literature and emerging trends in polymer science and engineering.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a positive and productive research culture.

Requirements

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of industrial or post-doctoral research experience in polymer synthesis and characterization.
• Proven expertise in various polymerization techniques (e.g., free radical, condensation, living polymerization).
• Proficiency with characterization techniques such as GPC, NMR, DSC, TGA, and mechanical testing.
• Demonstrated ability to manage research projects and deliver innovative solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge polymer chemistry research in Kimberley .
• Access to well-equipped research laboratories and advanced instrumentation.
• Support for professional growth, including conference attendance and training.
• A collaborative environment focused on scientific advancement and innovation.