Principal Scientist/Engineer: Nanominerals Nanotechnology at Mintek

Introduction

• Mintek is seeking a highly skilled, detail-oriented Scientist/Engineer to join the Nanominerals Nanotechnology Unit within the Nanotechnology Group. The candidate will conduct R&D on functional nanomaterials, characterisation, modelling and simulation, device fabrication and identification of possible application areas for commercialization of new technologies and products.

Job description
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:

• Design and develop reproducible synthesis strategies for nanomaterials and their applications
• Ensure long-term sustainability of projects by ensuring innovative and relevant R&D is undertaken to produce new technologies and products
• Take a leadership role in scaling-up, optimization and validation processes
• Develop technical evaluation protocols for nanomaterials products/technologies
• Coordinate with team members responsible for other aspects of the research projects
• Devise commercial strategies and draft targets, have the targets approved for the Group, and ensure that adequate work is done and progress achieved to meet them. This will include leveraging of funds for sustainability of the unit.
• Ensure the group maintains the highest level of competence in the area of Nanotechnology thereby ensuring the group provides solutions to health and water (though not limited to) related challenges in the country
• Complete projects within specified timeframes
• Must stay up to date on technology developments within their field through literature engagement, attending training programs and attending conferences within the field of nanotechnology
• Conduct work independently, but under the supervision of a team leader
• Assist in identifying opportunities for technology development and commercialisation
• Must assist with mentoring, training and/or coaching of junior research staff
• Obtain sufficient business from and in collaboration with, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and different industries by providing and promoting national competitive expertise
• Produce professional reports, papers or presentations at local and international conferences
• Assist the Director of the Unit in providing technical expertise and direction to the Unit in conceptualising and selling of nano related Products & Services (P&S)
• Ensure that SHEQ procedures are strictly adhered to and that project work is executed with maximum overall technical efficiency
• Demonstrate through behaviour the values and vision of Mintek

 
BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES:

• Good managerial and leadership skills
• Be able to work under pressure
• Attention to detail, ability to follow up and take initiative
• Excellent organising and administration skills.
• Ability to use influence and persuasion to further the Group’s goals to internal and external stakeholders
• Effective communication of work, plans, and progress using written and verbal communication
• Ability to efficiently manage and prioritize multiple projects and coordinate material exchanges with end users
• Ability to network at a high level and have good technical acumen.
• Must be willing to travel both locally and internationally.

Minimum requirements
 JOB KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in R&D, ideally 2 years as a Senior Scientist/Engineer working in the field of nanotechnology, is a requirement
• Experience in nanomaterial & nanocomposite synthesis and fabrication techniques
• Experience in material analysis and characterization techniques (e.g. HRTEM, SEM, AFM, FTIR , XRD, Raman Spectroscopy, DSC & TGA, DLS)
• Computational modelling experience will be an added advantage
• Competent knowledge of current trends and best practices in nanotechnology.
• Proven track record of postgraduate students supervision and research publications
• Experience in managing small to medium research projects and a team of professionals.
• Written and oral communications must be at an advanced technical level
• Experience in compiling applications for research grants both locally and internationally.
• Leadership skills and experience of supervising researchers are essential

 
QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Nanotechnology, Chemical Engineering or related field is required