Smart4 Sciences
Research And Development Chemist
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We are working with a leading advanced materials manufacturer to recruit an R&D Chemist to join their growing research and development team.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced polymer or materials scientist to play a key role in the development of next-generation thermoset resin systems. Working across the full product lifecycle, you will lead complex formulation and development projects, supporting innovation, process improvement, and the delivery of high-performance products for demanding industrial applications.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the formulation, optimisation, and validation of epoxy-based thermoset resin systems for prepregs and film adhesives.
- Apply industry experience to improve material performance, processing characteristics, and product robustness.
- Drive R&D projects from concept through to completion using structured development methodologies.
- Conduct laboratory investigations covering curing mechanisms, kinetic analysis, additive optimisation, and structure-property relationships.
- Support scale-up activities including pilot trials and manufacturing implementation.
- Provide technical support and troubleshooting for product performance, processing challenges, and customer-specific requirements.
- Monitor developments in polymer science and thermoset technologies to identify innovation opportunities.
- Maintain accurate technical documentation including formulations, test reports, processing guides, and development records.
- Present experimental findings, conclusions, and recommendations to stakeholders in a clear and timely manner.
- Collaborate closely with R&D Engineers, Project Managers, Production, Quality, and Commercial teams.
- Provide guidance and support to laboratory technicians where required.
- Liaise with suppliers and customers to support technical and project-related activities.
- Ensure compliance with all quality, health, safety, and environmental procedures.
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Requirements
- PhD in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
- Several years of industrial experience in thermosetting resin formulation, ideally with epoxy systems.
- Strong understanding of polymerisation chemistry, reaction mechanisms, curing behaviour, and structure-property relationships.
- Experience within coatings, adhesives, composites, thermosets, or related materials sectors.
- Hands-on experience with analytical and thermal characterisation techniques such as DSC, DMA, rheology, spectroscopy, and chromatography.
- Proven ability to independently design, execute, and interpret complex experimental programmes.
- Strong data analysis, problem-solving, and technical reporting skills.
- High level of computer literacy and experience analysing experimental data.
- Excellent planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams.
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Personal Attributes
- Passion for materials science and advanced product development.
- Innovative and proactive approach to solving technical challenges.
- Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to delivering high-quality results.
- Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills.
- Flexible, adaptable, and capable of working in a fast-paced R&D environment.
- Committed to maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and professional integrity.
What's on Offer
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge materials development projects.
- Collaborative and innovative R&D environment.
- Exposure to cross-functional projects from concept through to commercialisation.
- Long-term career development within a growing and technology-focused organisation.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
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