Senior Research Scientist - Sustainable Chemical Processes (Remote)

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Professional development allowance

Home office stipend

Flexible schedule

Health insurance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Scientist for Sustainable Chemical Processes. This fully remote role focuses on green chemistry, renewable feedstocks, and energy-efficient transformations, with collaboration across an international team.

You will lead experiments, publish findings, and mentor researchers while advancing environmentally friendly technologies. You will collaborate with global scientists, design and execute projects from concept to proof-of-concept, and contribute to

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related field with a focus on sustainable processes or green chemistry.
• 5+ years of post-doctoral research experience in academia or industry.
• Proven track record of innovation via publications, patents, and successful projects.
• Extensive knowledge of green chemistry, life cycle assessment, and environmental impact analysis.
• Experience with catalytic processes, biochemical conversions, or advanced separation techniques.
• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for remote collaboration.
• Strong ability to work independently and manage research projects remotely.
• Experience with computational modeling or simulation tools is a plus.
• Passion for sustainability and environmentally conscious technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct advanced research in sustainable chemical processes, green chemistry, and biotechnology applications.
• Develop and optimize novel synthesis routes utilizing renewable resources and minimizing waste.
• Investigate and implement energy-efficient technologies for chemical manufacturing.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments, pilot studies, and proof-of-concept trials.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Prepare research reports, publications, and patent applications.
• Collaborate with a remote, multidisciplinary international team.
• Stay abreast of latest scientific advancements in sustainable chemistry and process engineering.
• Present findings at conferences and to internal stakeholders.
• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance.

Skills

Research leadership

Green chemistry

Experimental design

Remote collaboration

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking R&D organization focused on environmental solutions, is seeking a Senior Research Scientist specializing in Sustainable Chemical Processes to join their globally distributed team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. Your primary focus will be on developing and advancing innovative, environmentally friendly chemical processes and technologies. This includes research into green chemistry, renewable feedstocks, waste valorization, and energy-efficient chemical transformations. The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field, with a strong publication record and demonstrated success in leading research initiatives. You will collaborate with an international team of scientists and engineers, contributing to cutting-edge research that addresses global sustainability challenges. This role is crucial for driving the company's commitment to eco-friendly innovation and requires a passionate advocate for sustainable development. Your work will directly impact the development of greener industrial practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct advanced research in sustainable chemical processes, green chemistry, and biotechnology applications.


• Develop and optimize novel chemical synthesis routes utilizing renewable resources and minimizing waste generation.


• Investigate and implement energy-efficient technologies for chemical manufacturing.


• Design and execute laboratory experiments, pilot studies, and proof-of-concept trials.


• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and draw meaningful conclusions.


• Prepare high-quality research reports, scientific publications, and patent applications.


• Collaborate effectively with a remote, multidisciplinary international research team.


• Stay abreast of the latest scientific advancements and trends in sustainable chemistry and process engineering.


• Present research findings at scientific conferences and to internal stakeholders.


• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline with a focus on sustainable processes or green chemistry.


• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in academia or industry.


• Proven track record of innovation, demonstrated through publications, patents, and successful project outcomes.


• Extensive knowledge of green chemistry principles, life cycle assessment, and environmental impact analysis.


• Experience with catalytic processes, biochemical conversions, or advanced separation techniques.


• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for remote collaboration and scientific dissemination.


• Strong ability to work independently and manage research projects effectively in a remote setting.


• Experience with computational modeling or simulation tools is a plus.


• A passion for sustainability and a commitment to developing environmentally conscious technologies.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure commensurate with experience and contribution.


• Fully remote work arrangement, offering significant flexibility.


• Generous annual leave and paid time off.


• Allowance for professional development, including conferences and subscriptions.


• Home office setup stipend and reimbursement for internet/utilities.


• Comprehensive private health insurance and wellness programs.


• Contribution to retirement savings plan.


• Opportunity to work on impactful research addressing global environmental challenges.


• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating virtual work environment.