Senior Research Scientist - Polymer Engineering and Rheology

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Sur place; ZAR 900 000 - 1 400 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Continued learning

Modern research facility

Work-life balance

Paid time off

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Mahikeng to lead polymer rheology and processing efforts. You will drive fundamental and applied research, develop constitutive models, and collaborate with synthesis and application teams to optimize formulations for processing efficiency and performance.

The role requires a PhD and at least five years in polymer rheology, with hands-on lab experience and strong data analysis skills.

Qualifications

• PhD in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field with rheology/polymer processing focus.
• Minimum 5 years in polymer rheology and processing research.
• Hands-on experience with rheometers and polymer processing equipment (extruders, molders).
• Strong theory in polymer physics, viscoelasticity, and fluid mechanics.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization software.
• Experience with ANSYS Fluent/COMSOL is desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project-management skills.
• Publication record in journals/patents.

Responsabilités

• Characterize polymers and composites rheologically.
• Develop constitutive models for polymer flow.
• Explore structure–property–processing relationships.
• Use oscillatory and steady-shear rheology techniques.
• Apply CFD to simulate polymer processing operations.
• Collaborate with synthesis and application teams to optimize formulations.
• Scale up processing from lab to pilot.

Connaissances

Polymer rheology

Polymer physics

Data analysis

Project management

Scientific communication

Formation

PhD in Polymer Science or related field

Outils

ANSYS Fluent

COMSOL Multiphysics

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a leader in advanced materials science, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to specialize in Polymer Engineering and Rheology. This role is critical for understanding and manipulating the flow behavior of polymers, enabling the development of materials with enhanced processability and performance characteristics. You will be based in our state-of-the-art research laboratories in **Mahikeng, North West, ZA**, equipped with cutting-edge rheological instrumentation. We are looking for an individual with deep expertise in polymer physics, rheology, and material processing, capable of driving innovation from fundamental research to applied solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to significant advancements in polymer science within the **Mahikeng, North West, ZA** industrial sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive rheological characterization of polymers and polymer composites.
• Develop constitutive models to describe polymer flow behavior under various conditions.
• Investigate structure-property-processing relationships in polymeric materials.
• Utilize advanced rheological techniques, including oscillatory and steady-shear measurements.
• Apply computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to simulate polymer processing operations.
• Collaborate with polymer synthesis and application development teams to optimize material formulations and processing methods.
• Scale up processing techniques from laboratory to pilot scale.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and generate technical reports.
• Present findings internally and externally at scientific conferences and to customers.
• Mentor junior scientists and technicians in the area of polymer rheology and processing.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with a specialization in rheology or polymer processing.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in polymer rheology and processing research.
• Extensive hands-on experience with various rheometers and polymer processing equipment (e.g., extruders, injection molders).
• Strong theoretical understanding of polymer physics, viscoelasticity, and fluid mechanics.
• Proficiency in data analysis and scientific visualization software.
• Experience with computational modeling and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL) is highly desirable.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts clearly.
• Proven ability to manage projects and work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals and/or patents.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance.
• We provide opportunities for continuous learning through internal training, external courses, and conference attendance.
• Our **Mahikeng, North West, ZA** research facility offers a modern and well-equipped environment.
• We promote a culture of innovation, scientific excellence, and work-life balance.
• Paid time off and support for professional development are key aspects of our employee offering.
• Join our dedicated team and contribute to pushing the boundaries of polymer science and engineering.