Senior Researcher: Fluorine Chemistry (Internal/External - Hay level 16/D1) (North West) at NECSA

Job Purpose

• The primary purpose of this job is to independently perform work on research projects in the area of expertise. The role requires a balance between self-development and the development of others, and visible contributions to relevant Necsa business processes and SHEQ requirements are required. The role requires increasing leadership in knowledge dissemination activities and leading development projects in the area of expertise. The job is focused on chemistry related to fluorine materials and compounds, and most importantly, in areas of vibrational spectroscopy and molecular modelling.

Key Performance Areas:

Knowledge Dissemination

• Capture research work done in written format; at least as co-author in regular progress reports, annual progress reports, technical reports, local and international conference contributions and journal publications.
• Publish in the relevant field.
• Report research results orally at Necsa wide colloquia and national conferences/ meetings/workshops.
• Provide input on editorial panels and workshops OR conference organizations or topical workshops.
• Perform research and generate outputs in accordance with the role of expert in the relevant technical field within the organization.
• Contribute to publications as primary author of peer-reviewed published works.

Human Capital Development Local and International

• Provide training to colleagues and students in identified subjects/skills. Provide academic supervision to post-graduate students.
• Contribute as a member or lead a research team with specific responsibilities.
• Contribute to capacity building, outreach events, and other community services. e.g. science week, science expo, etc.
• Supervise or co-supervise graduate intern projects, postgraduate level students, and train colleagues in area of expertise.

 Contribution to NECSA business processes

• Execute research tasks with no supervision.
• Create know-how or process development that is of commercial and/or strategic value to Necsa, e.g. Innovation Disclosures.
• Write peer reviewed publications as output.
• Contribute to preparation of client reports e.g. calculation or experiment.
• Coordinate defined activities as researcher in projects visible at section/group level. Contribute to project design and planning.
• Support the establishment of strategic partnerships with industry and scientific bodies that meet Necsa’s strategic and academic goals.
• Coordinate technical research projects spanning at least 1 – 2 years.
• Develop proposals for new projects.

 SHEQ and Other Audits

• Participate and contribute to Business Process Management (e.g. document management and timesheet) Systems.
• Perform activities aimed at improving safety, quality and security, e.g. Building Head, BBS Management Sponsor, R&I Representative on SDC, etc.
• Take the lead in processes aimed at improving safety, quality and security, e.g. Building Head, BBS Management Sponsor, R&I Representative on SDC, etc.
• Assist in the resolving of audit findings and improvement actions.

Financial Management

• Support achievement of budget goals and/or develop project budgets as project leader.
• Increase income (e.g. Research Grants like NRF Thuthuka) and reduce wasteful expenditure of research projects.
• Control cost of managed projects. Contribute to increasing research project funding availability by leveraging against potential funding streams like the NRF (NEP), TIA Seed Fund, IAEA (TC), Contract Research, etc.

Job Requirements

Key Knowledge & Skills 

• Clear demonstration of applications of scientific and engineering principles, techniques and a sound research methodology.
• Innovative and creative mindset that aims to further develop, optimize and increase the impact of research performed.
• Analytical thinking and good problem-solving capabilities.
• Attention to detail while performing tasks.
• Strive for excellence in all aspects of job performance.
• Situational leadership and good interpersonal communication skills with the ability to motivate subordinates.
• Knowledge of and experience in data acquisition and interpretation using vibrational spectroscopy
• Molecular modelling from both a theoretical and practical computational point of view. Expertise in using modelling software and codes such as VASP (or similar) at an expert level.
• Expert knowledge of structural chemistry and solid state materials chemistry and the application of spectroscopy and molecular modelling to these fields.
• Working knowledge of other bulk and surface material characterisation techniques, such as XRD, XPS, etc.

Competencies (Job Specific and Behavioural)

• Scientific report writing and communication.
• Project budget drafting, forecasting and management. Clinical and efficient judgement and decision making.
• Thinking and planning towards strategic objectives.
• Able to work with or lead a research team.
• Conduct and promote a strong safety culture.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications & Experience:

Minimum education:

• M.Sc/MEng. in Science or Engineering
• PhD in Science or Engineering will be an added advantage

Minimum Experience

• 3-5 years’ researcher experience in a specialized scientific/engineering field.