35 Scientific Innovation jobs in South Africa

Our client is seeking an experienced and technically astute Research & Development Manager to lead their Research & Development laboratory operations and oversee projects related to alternative raw materials, packaging changes, stability testing, and the transition from new product development to commercial launches. The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of R&D and will work closely with the Chief Innovation Officer.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee all R&D lab activities, including setting weekly work plans and monitoring progress.

Manage projects covering regulatory compliance, raw material changes, new packaging, and product promotions.

Chair weekly project tracker meetings and provide clear updates to the Head of R&D and other stakeholders.

Draft and approve departmental SOPs to ensure operational excellence.

Collaborate with Manufacturing and QA teams to resolve batch failures, reworks, and customer complaints.

Oversee documentation from Operational and Stability Chemists to internal and external stakeholders.

Maintain Bills of Materials (BOM) in Syspro.

Manage MMI storage, archiving, updates, and issuing.

Oversee IEP / CEP sample and report control.

Mentor, develop, and appraise the R&D team, identifying and implementing training needs.

Ensure R&D team members are fully trained to transition NPD and formula upgrades to commercial manufacturing.

Manage team administration, including attendance, discipline, and performance standards.

Support the Head of R&D with departmental budgeting and cost management.

Manage departmental resources, including purchasing consumables and evaluating new equipment.

Compile accurate raw material files and key technical documentation.

Prepare and present monthly statistical and performance reports to the Head of R&D.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science (BSc) in a relevant scientific field.

Coschem Diploma / Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation, with a postgraduate qualification in Project Management.

Minimum 6–8 years in a cosmetics R&D environment, with at least 5 years in an R&D managerial role.

Strong technical expertise in cosmetics or pharmaceuticals.

Proven project management track record, delivering projects on time and within budget.

Excellent leadership, mentoring, and people management skills.

Strong regulatory knowledge and understanding of product compliance.

Our client is seeking an experienced and technically astute Research & Development Manager to lead their Research & Development laboratory operations and oversee projects related to alternative raw materials, packaging changes, stability testing, and the transition from new product development to commercial launches. The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of R&D and will work closely with the Chief Innovation Officer.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all R&D lab activities, including setting weekly work plans and monitoring progress.

• Manage projects covering regulatory compliance, raw material changes, new packaging, and product promotions.

• Chair weekly project tracker meetings and provide clear updates to the Head of R&D and other stakeholders.

• Draft and approve departmental SOPs to ensure operational excellence.

• Collaborate with Manufacturing and QA teams to resolve batch failures, reworks, and customer complaints.

• Oversee documentation from Operational and Stability Chemists to internal and external stakeholders.

• Maintain Bills of Materials (BOM) in Syspro.

• Manage MMI storage, archiving, updates, and issuing.

• Oversee IEP/CEP sample and report control.

• Mentor, develop, and appraise the R&D team, identifying and implementing training needs.

• Ensure R&D team members are fully trained to transition NPD and formula upgrades to commercial manufacturing.

• Manage team administration, including attendance, discipline, and performance standards.

• Support the Head of R&D with departmental budgeting and cost management.

• Manage departmental resources, including purchasing consumables and evaluating new equipment.

• Compile accurate raw material files and key technical documentation.

• Prepare and present monthly statistical and performance reports to the Head of R&D.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in a relevant scientific field.

• Coschem Diploma / Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation, with a postgraduate qualification in Project Management.

• Minimum 6–8 years in a cosmetics R&D environment, with at least 5 years in an R&D managerial role.

• Strong technical expertise in cosmetics or pharmaceuticals.

• Proven project management track record, delivering projects on time and within budget.

• Excellent leadership, mentoring, and people management skills.

• Strong regulatory knowledge and understanding of product compliance.

Research & Development Manager Agricultural

Location: Springs, East Rand, Ekurhuleni

Key Responsibilities :

1. Lead the development and formulation of new fertilizer products to enhance crop performance.
2. Identify and evaluate new opportunities, conducting feasibility studies for projects and products.
3. Define and implement a Research & Development roadmap aligned with business objectives and market trends.
4. Apply scientific methods, design trial protocols, conduct and manage research projects, analyze trial data, and produce clear reports.
5. Maintain strong documentation standards; develop and update SOPs.
6. Oversee laboratory, greenhouse, and field trial activities, ensuring accurate execution and data integrity.
7. Support the product registration process and troubleshoot technical production issues.
8. Supervise daily laboratory operations, maintain safety, and promote continuous learning and innovation in the Research & Development team.
9. Mentor and develop junior team members and allocate resources effectively.
10. Manage Research & Development budgets and track project timelines, delivering world-class research aligned with latest agronomic and biotechnological trends.

Key Qualifications & Requirements :

1. Master’s Degree in Biotechnology (Biochemistry, Microbiology, Plant Physiology) or Agronomy.
2. At least 10 years experience in the agriculture sector.
3. Minimum 5 years proven experience in team leadership.
4. Good command of Afrikaans / English / French (advantageous).
5. Strong analytical, planning, and time management skills.
6. Advanced computer proficiency (MS Office and MS Project).
7. Excellent verbal and written communicator, skilled in stakeholder engagement and presenting.
8. Demonstrated innovation, adaptability, and strong professional ethics.
9. Solid business and financial understanding with a focus on process improvement and achieving results.

Reference: PE000185-JD-1

The hiring organisation is a science-based organisation working to protect Africa’s seas and communities for the benefit of all who live on the continent. Their vision of success is a future where the people of Africa and her seas flourish together. Using waste as the lens, marine pollution as the impact the organisation works to mitigate, and the coastal communities of Africa as the focal point of interactions between land and ocean, the Research, Development and Monitoring impact portfolio works to design well-structured, high-quality research programmes to ensure comprehensive understanding of the challenges impeding sustainable waste management in identified coastal communities.

This position of Manager: Research, Development and Monitoring is based in Port Elizabeth, and is offered on a 12-month Fixed Term Contract basis. He/she is answerable to the Head of Marine and Coastal Impact Programmes.

S/he will ensure that sound research interventions underpin the design of all marine conservation interventions (training, skills transfer, capacity building, community upliftment, and enterprise development) and that the research outcomes directly inform all organisational strategic guidance and advice given (at both a national and regional scale) to support sustainable waste management. Lastly, s/he will be responsible for impact reporting within the organisation through the design of a robust organisational monitoring and evaluation framework.

This exciting programme has both a local focus and a national and regional focus across Africa.

• Coordinate research activities and build the organisational capacity on research techniques and methods (qualitative, quantitative, policy, etc.).
• Initiate, coordinate, and assist all activities across identified research projects as aligned with the organisational Theory of Change and strategy.
• Initiate, coordinate, and maintain effective relationships with identified researchers and research influencers.
• Assist and control the quality of all research projects across portfolios of work, including but not limited to research designs, methods, data management strategies, data analysis, and publication writing.
• Organise knowledge and skills sharing to increase organisational research capacity.
• Guide the design of all interventions to achieve organisational marine pollution, blue economy and ocean conservation objectives.
• Ensure all research activities align with international best practice with regards to research ethics and principles.
• Manage the finances of every aspect of the Research, Development and Monitoring Impact Portfolio, including preparing budgets and financial reporting, managing the training budget and monitoring monthly expenditure reports.
• Drive and oversee the development and update of NPO’s internal organisational Monitoring and Evaluation systems, analysing data and providing reporting as required to various stakeholders, including assisting other roles in the organisation with such.
• Work with other impact portfolios to ensure interventions are rolled out and reported on correctly.

At least a Masters’ degree in one of the environmental sciences a prerequisite.
At least seven (7) years’ proven experience in an appropriate discipline, and at least three (3) of these in a management role.
A proven successful track record in leading research teams and pioneering new research methods.
A good track record in research and writing, ideally writing reports, and professional publications (beyond science and peer reviewed publications).
Competence in statistics and at least a working knowledge of modelling and Artificial Intelligence.
Proven track record in developing and implementing strategic plans.
Ability to successfully work with and lead a team.
Valid driver’s license essential. Must be comfortable driving alone.
SA Citizen with a clean criminal record.

Has a passion for the sustainability agenda.
Is well organised and proactive.
Able to stay well-informed on the latest global developments on plastics (e.g. the Global Plastics Treaty), climate change, marine conservation, and education.
Has an excellent understanding of stakeholder engagement strategies.
Displays excellence in public speaking, presenting research plans and results.
Displays high attention to detail.

Location: Port Elizabeth - 100% in office.
Duration: Full-time 12-month fixed-term contract, with potential to renew for an additional 3 years.
Start date: As soon as possible.
Salary: Market related. No benefits.

Short listed candidates may be expected to complete and pass assessments before moving to the next stage of the recruitment process.
If you have not heard from us within two weeks of submitting your CV, please deem your application as unsuccessful.

The hiring organisation is a science-based organisation working to protect Africa’s seas and communities for the benefit of all who live on the continent. Their vision of success is a future where the people of Africa and her seas flourish together. Using waste as the lens, marine pollution as the impact the organisation works to mitigate, and the coastal communities of Africa as the focal point of interactions between land and ocean, the Research, Development and Monitoring impact portfolio works to design well-structured, high-quality research programmes to ensure comprehensive understanding of the challenges impeding sustainable waste management in identified coastal communities.

This position of Manager: Research, Development and Monitoring is based in Port Elizabeth, and is offered on a 12-month Fixed Term Contract basis. He/she is answerable to the Head of Marine and Coastal Impact Programmes.

S/he will ensure that sound research interventions underpin the design of all marine conservation interventions (training, skills transfer, capacity building, community upliftment, and enterprise development) and that the research outcomes directly inform all organisational strategic guidance and advice given (at both a national and regional scale) to support sustainable waste management. Lastly, s/he will be responsible for impact reporting within the organisation through the design of a robust organisational monitoring and evaluation framework.

• Coordinate research activities and build the organisational capacity on research techniques and methods (qualitative, quantitative, policy, etc.).
• Initiate, coordinate, and assist all activities across identified research projects as aligned with the organisational Theory of Change and strategy.
• Initiate, coordinate, and maintain effective relationships with identified researchers and research influencers.
• Assist and control the quality of all research projects across portfolios of work, including but not limited to research designs, methods, data management strategies, data analysis, and publication writing.
• Organise knowledge and skills sharing to increase organisational research capacity.
• Guide the design of all interventions to achieve organisational marine pollution, blue economy and ocean conservation objectives.
• Ensure all research activities align with international best practice with regards to research ethics and principles.
• Manage the finances of every aspect of the Research, Development and Monitoring Impact Portfolio, including preparing budgets and financial reporting, managing the training budget and monitoring monthly expenditure reports.
• Drive and oversee the development and update of NPO’s internal organisational Monitoring and Evaluation systems, analysing data and providing reporting as required to various stakeholders, including assisting other roles in the organisation with such.
• Work with other impact portfolios to ensure interventions are rolled out and reported on correctly.

• At least a Masters’ degree in one of the environmental sciences a prerequisite.
• At least seven (7) years’ proven experience in an appropriate discipline, and at least three (3) of these in a management role.
• A proven successful track record in leading research teams and pioneering new research methods.
• A good track record in research and writing, ideally writing reports, and professional publications (beyond science and peer reviewed publications).
• Competence in statistics and at least a working knowledge of modelling and Artificial Intelligence.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing strategic plans.
• Ability to successfully work with and lead a team.
• Valid driver’s license essential. Must be comfortable driving alone.
• SA Citizen with a clean criminal record.

• Has a passion for the sustainability agenda.
• Is well organised and proactive.
• Able to stay well-informed on the latest global developments on plastics (e.g. the Global Plastics Treaty), climate change, marine conservation, and education.
• Has an excellent understanding of stakeholder engagement strategies.
• Displays excellence in public speaking, presenting research plans and results.
• Displays high attention to detail.

Location: Port Elizabeth - 100% in office.
Duration: Full-time 12-month fixed-term contract, with potential to renew for an additional 3 years.
Start date: As soon as possible.
Salary: Market related. No benefits.

• BTech (Industrial Design)
• 3+ years experience in the following:
• Conceptualisation and problem-solving of various design criteria
• Proficiency in SolidWorks, CorelDRAW (Advantageous), and Microsoft Office (Compulsory).
• Proficiency with simulation software mechanical and thermal.
• Sketching, concept drawing, 3D presentation/rendering, technical drawing.
• Design experience in plastic fabrication, other manufacturing processes such as sheet metal, injection moulding, extrusion, vacuum forming, as well as printing.
• Producing efficient designs within the framework of simplicity, feasibility, cost efficiency, and accuracy.
• Compiling assemblies and detailed manufacturing drawings by acknowledged manufacturing standards.
• Issuing revisions and updates to the manufacturing drawings and material lists.
• Providing technical support during manufacturing processes.
• The following additional experience will be highly advantageous:
• Basic Electrical / Electronic knowledge and experience.

• Product Industrialisation
• Research Responsibilities
• Product Development and Deployment
• Administration and Reporting

Listing reference: atns_000556

Listing status: Under Review

Apply by: 4 February 2025

Job category: Research and Development

Location: Bedfordview

Contract: Permanent

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: No

Applications are invited for the position of Head of Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) (Peromnes Grade 5) based at Head Office, Bruma. The successful applicant will be reporting to the Chief Strategy OfficerTo advance the strategic business objectives of the company through diligent and focused research and innovation to support the long-term financial sustainability of the organisation. To establish an in-depth understanding and analysis of the macro air traffic control and navigation environment and ATNS strategic objectives to inform the research agenda and identify innovation opportunities. To lead and direct the establishment of an effective Research, Development and Innovation function for ATNS able to effectively support the company’s vision and mission of becoming the leading provider of safe and efficient Air Traffic Management solutions in Africa. To support the creation of an adaptive and innovative enterprise through the active promotion of digitalisation, technological innovation, diversification, and commercialisation of products and services. To drive the deployment of relevant and innovative technology that will meet the expectations of customers and the Air Traffic Management (ATM) community. To drive the development of an innovative product portfolio and commercialisation in support of future air traffic management concepts and systems with the lowest possible risk to the company

Strategy and Implementation - Establish and manage a strategic research and innovation agenda and framework within SRD&I aligned to business strategy which enables RD&I to seek opportunities for improvement and innovation in every area. Provide strategic leadership and guidance to the Research, Development & Innovation function to enable the successful achievement of required business objectives and deliverables. Provide input into the ATNS strategy based on research findings. Develop, implement and articulate the RD&I strategy and value proposition to the organization. Drive delivery of the required RD&I research and innovation project portfolio and initiatives within the agreed time, budget and standard/quality requirements. Analyze trends and metrics in partnership with the Chief SRD&I that will inform the development of current and future required solutions, programs, and policies aligned to business priorities

Manage the Research, Development & Innovation Agenda - Establish an in-depth understanding and analysis of the macro air traffic control and navigation environment and ATNS strategic objectives to inform the research agenda and identify innovation opportunities. Focus research, development and innovation on Air Traffic Management solutions and associated services that meet the needs and expectations of the ATM community and that will support the long-term financial sustainability of ATNS. Develop a research agenda that actively supports the company’s strategic objectives and business priorities. Provide plans and guidelines on the establishment of long-term ATM/cns systems to ensure system capacity that is aligned to stakeholder requirements. Prepare plans, processes, procedures and safety cases for introducing new technologies into the operations environment.

Operationalization of RD&I - Conduct or commission strategic market, industry and technology research. Develop and coordinate a roadmap for ATNS of the future in collaboration/partnership with all internal stakeholders. Manage and administer the end-to-end innovation management process from idea management to business case review. Provide RD&I thought leadership to the organization aligned to the vision and overall business strategies, and provide recommendations and advice on the research, development and innovation agenda. Develop and implement the RD&I operating model based on end-user requirements, benchmarking and strategic objectives. Conduct research and statistical analysis to identify opportunities for improving efficiency across the function. Benchmark service delivery of RD&I against global best practices. Provide specialist advice with regards to RD&I issues in the organization. Maintain, promote and continuously improve RD&I efficiency and related processes.

Governance, Risk, Compliance & Reporting - Manage and implement a robust governance framework for the RD&I function. Continuously monitor and measure compliance with all ATNS policies and procedures and relevant legislation. Manage the function’s performance against strategy and set targets and corporate objectives. Lead overall risk assessment of RD&I projects and issue management and develop and implement effective mitigation plans and actions. Develop product level risk analyses as appropriate. Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, policy and standards. Consolidate input from all relevant parties to prepare strategic level reports for the Chief SRD&I and other relevant stakeholders. Prepare formal and ad hoc reports as required

Stakeholder Relations Management - Build, maintain and nurture mutually beneficial relationships with relevant stakeholders. Develop, manage and maintain sound relationships with key stakeholders. Build and maintain effective collaborative relationships with all relevant business functions and teams within ATNS to enable alignment and optimal service delivery

Financial Management - Manage expenditure in line with business priorities and objectives, and within approved financial parameters. Develop and manage the RD&I budget in line with strategic business objectives and the ATNS mandate. Ensure compliance to company financial policies and procedures. Report on all costs incurred against the approved budget as well as any possible deviations thereto

People Management - Manage staff in accordance with HC policies, processes and practices. Ensure that new employees have been properly on-boarded prior to commencing work. Monitor the time and attendance of subordinates, take appropriate action in the case of absenteeism, and report issues to management and Human Capital. Ensure the availability of skilled and competent staff in the strategy function to meet the current and future needs aligned to the departmental and overall business strategies. Ensure that staff is managed in accordance with HC policies, processes and practices. Promote high levels of discipline and performance standards to achieve the ATNS strategies.

Interested applicants are requested to register their CV’s and apply on by no later than 4 February 2025.

If you have not been contacted within 3 weeks of the closing date of this advert, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.

ATNS is an equal opportunity employer that strives to achieve a diverse workforce broadly representative of our people. This position will be filled in line with the objectives of ATNS’ Employment Equity Plan and therefore candidates from designated groups as per the Employment Equity Act of 1998, are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

· Post graduate tertiary qualifications in Science, Business Management, Engineering or any relevant field

· Leadership Development qualification is advantageous

· Seasoned professional is required with a minimum of 8 years of experience in conducting and managing research, development and innovation in a technological environment, preferably air traffic services/ air traffic management, of which at least 5 years must be at a managerial level

· Must have done research and published

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A wonderful opportunity has become available for a Research & Development Officer within the leading Aquaculture Feed manufacturer in Hermanus, Western Cape.

A short list will be drawn up of the candidates that apply and only shortlisted candidates will be interviewed.

Monitoring and improving the performance of our current products and the development of new products for specialised aquatic feeds through client engagement, research and development. Our primary focus is aquaculture, but pet foods will be a portion of this.

Product development will include attending all client engagement sessions with the sales and marketing manager, facilitating regular updates and engagements between the SAF team, clients and nutritionists in the development of new diets, converting new formulations into job cards for clear communication to the production team including client product spec requirements and packaging for finished goods, costing and cost variation monitoring, communication and in field performance monitoring and feedback.

Research design, setup and reporting as well as related permitting requirements and compliance.

SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Online sales and support for digital sales platforms.
• Conference and workshop training and engagement sessions.
• May be required to travel once per quarter for four to five days at a time.
• Must have a valid drivers license and passport.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft office with specific fluency in word, excel and PowerPoint.
• May occasionally be required to work over weekends and after hours or to remotely monitor weekend staff that are looking after ongoing trials where live animals are being cared for.
• Experience in aquaculture and aquaculture production systems, research and nutrition will be essential. Nutritional formulation will be beneficial, but not essential.

COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES

• Ability to read, write, understand and communicate in English and Afrikaans, additional South African languages will be beneficial.
• Numeracy and computer literacy – especially Microsoft Office.
• Analytical Skills.
• Trial design and analysis skills.
• Communication and inter-personal engagement skills.
• Troubleshooting and problem solving skills.

DESIRED EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATION

• Previous experience in a commercial aquaculture production environment.
• Previous aquatic nutrition and formulation experience.
• Previous experience working with Syspro an advantage.
• Experience in trial design, implementation, monitoring, analysis and reporting.
• Experience in conference presentations and public speaking.
• Client engagement and feedback.
• Results reporting.
• Problem solving.
• Solutions focus.
• Implementation.

Online sales and digital client engagement would be beneficial.

• May be expected to work over weekends and public holidays.
• May be expected to work extended hours from time to time.
• May be expected to be on stand by and to come in to respond to alarms for live animal trials from time-to-time.

Market and Industry related.

Please forward your CV and Certifications to quoting the position on the subject line by 19th April 2024. Specialised Aquatic Feeds is guided by the principles of Employment Equity. Disabled candidates are encouraged to apply and an indication in this regard would be appreciated.

Correspondence will be limited to successful candidates only.