Senior Research Scientist - Renewable Energy

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist in Polokwane to advance renewable energy technologies, including solar energy conversion, energy storage, smart grids, and biofuels.

You will design and conduct experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and mentor junior researchers while collaborating with engineers, scientists, and policy experts to move projects from concept to prototype in a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Engineering or related field with renewable energy focus.
• Minimum of 5 years post‑doctoral or relevant industry research experience.
• Proven ability to design, conduct, and analyze complex experiments.
• Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research in renewable energy technologies (solar, storage, wind, geothermal).
• Design and perform laboratory experiments to investigate materials and device architectures.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and draw scientifically sound conclusions.
• Develop and optimize models for energy systems and components.
• Collaborate with engineers to scale up technologies and conduct pilot studies.
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Contribute to IP development and patent applications.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns with guidance and technical support.
• Stay informed about latest renewable energy advancements and trends.
• Assist with grant writing and proposal development.

Skills

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Critical thinking

Written communication

Verbal communication

Education

PhD in Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

LabVIEW

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a forward-thinking organization committed to developing sustainable energy solutions and combating climate change. We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Scientist to join our dedicated team in Polokwane , focusing on advancements in renewable energy technologies. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering research in areas such as solar energy conversion, energy storage systems, smart grids, or advanced biofuels. You will play a key role in designing and executing experimental research, analyzing data, and developing innovative technologies that will shape the future of energy. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background, a proven track record of research achievements, and a passion for sustainability. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and policy experts to drive impactful projects from concept to prototype. This is an excellent chance to make a significant contribution to a critical global challenge in a stimulating and supportive research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research in renewable energy technologies, such as solar photovoltaics, battery storage, wind energy, or geothermal systems.
• Design and perform laboratory experiments to investigate new materials, processes, and device architectures.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and draw scientifically sound conclusions.
• Develop and optimize models for energy systems and components.
• Collaborate with engineers to scale up promising technologies and conduct pilot studies.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property and patent applications.
• Mentor junior researchers and interns, providing guidance and technical support.
• Stay informed about the latest advancements and trends in renewable energy research.
• Contribute to grant writing and proposal development efforts.

Requirements

• PhD in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical), Materials Science, Physics, or a related field with a focus on renewable energy.
• Minimum of 5 years of post‑doctoral or relevant industry research experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more areas of renewable energy technologies (e.g., solar cells, batteries, fuel cells, energy systems).
• Proven ability to design, conduct, and analyze complex experiments.
• Strong theoretical understanding and practical experience in relevant scientific principles.
• Proficiency in scientific programming and data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW).
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical reporting and presentations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Experience with life cycle assessment or techno‑economic analysis is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous annual leave and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and conference attendance.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Hybrid work arrangement for enhanced work‑life balance.
• Collaborative and mission‑driven work environment.
• Employee wellness initiatives.
• Potential for bonuses based on project success and innovation.