Senior Research Scientist - Renewable Energy Systems (Remote)

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working hours

Remote-first role

Health insurance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Research Scientist for its renewable energy division. This fully remote position focuses on energy storage and grid integration, developing innovative technologies for solar, wind, and battery systems.

The role involves leading R&D, publishing in journals, mentoring junior researchers, and presenting findings at conferences while collaborating with a distributed team. A strong publication record and leadership capability are required.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Electrical/Mechanical/Materials Science or related energy field.
• 7+ years of renewable energy research experience.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Deep understanding of power systems and energy storage.

Responsibilities

• Conduct R&D in energy storage, grid integration, and smart grid tech.
• Design experiments to evaluate new energy technologies.
• Analyze datasets from simulations and experiments for insights.
• Develop models/algorithms to optimize energy generation and storage.
• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and policy analysts.
• Publish reports and papers; contribute to patent applications.
• Present findings at conferences; stay current with industry trends.
• Mentor junior researchers and support team growth.
• Ensure safety and ethical conduct of research activities.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Leadership

Mentorship

Education

Ph.D. in energy systems

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

PSS/E

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in sustainable technology solutions, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to join their pioneering renewable energy division. This fully remote role is designed for an individual passionate about developing innovative solutions for energy storage and grid integration. You will be instrumental in researching, developing, and testing advanced technologies that will shape the future of clean energy. Working collaboratively with a distributed team of experts, you will contribute to high-impact projects focused on advancing solar, wind, and battery technologies. This is an exceptional opportunity to drive meaningful change in the fight against climate change, contributing to advancements that will be felt far beyond **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, ZA**.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research and development in renewable energy systems, focusing on energy storage, grid integration, and smart grid technologies.
• Design and execute experimental protocols to evaluate the performance and efficiency of new energy technologies.
• Analyze complex datasets from simulations and experimental trials to derive actionable insights.
• Develop novel algorithms and models for optimizing energy generation, storage, and distribution.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, material scientists, and policy analysts.
• Author technical reports, research papers for publication in leading journals, and patent applications.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences and symposia.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in the renewable energy sector.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the technical growth of the team.
• Ensure the safety and ethical conduct of all research activities.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related field with a strong focus on energy systems.
• Minimum of 7 years of research experience in renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, or battery systems.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Deep understanding of power systems, energy storage technologies, and grid modernization.
• Experience with simulation software (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, PSS/E, DIgSILENT PowerFactory) is essential.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python for data analysis and modeling.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a remote team.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and mentor junior staff.
• Experience with policy analysis and techno-economic assessments in the energy sector is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package tailored for remote employees. This includes flexible working hours, excellent health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan with matching contributions, and ample paid vacation and holidays. We provide a technology stipend to support your home office setup. Opportunities for continuous professional development are encouraged through funding for workshops, conferences, and advanced training. Join a forward-thinking organization committed to building a sustainable future and enjoy the autonomy and impact of a remote-first role.