Research Scientist - Coatings

Location Oxfordshire
Job type: Chemist
Salary: £32 - 39k and shares
Contact name: Laura Merritt

Contact email: laura@merrittrecruitment.com
Job ref: 148
Published: about 2 years ago

​Our client is a fast-growing cleantech group for the application of chemistry and nanotechnology to enable novel material solutions, needed for a zero-carbon world. They supply nanomaterials and surface treatments to meet growing demand from the transport sector and is developing new applications in areas ranging from novel battery technologies to hydrogen transportation and renewable energy. To continue their innovative research in carbene and surface chemistry they are seeking an experienced Research Scientist to drive the development of R&D programs. The Research Scientist will work in a fast-paced team environment. You will be a pragmatic, enthusiastic, scientist with excellent organization skills and strong attention to detail. This role is predominantly laboratory-based however, some travel to customers to support trials in both the UK and internationally will be expected.

Summary of Key Responsibilities:

  • Plan and execute research & development projects based on the development of new coatings and surface treatments.

  • Assist in customer trials for product demonstration and technology transfer to drive the creation of new customer relationships.

Candidate Essential skills:

  • 3+ years industry experience working in the field of coatings, materials or chemistry. Candidates with 6+ years of relevant industrial experience will be considered for a senior research role

  • Experience in working with coatings (e.g. films, resins, or dispersions): formulation, application techniques (e.g. Drawdown bar, dip-coating, spray) and testing.

  • Knowledge of polymer science with an understanding of the relationship between chemical structure and physical properties.

  • Fundamentals of mechanical testing of materials, thermal analysis, spectroscopy techniques.

  • Designing tests, writing reports, interpreting data, presenting findings to internal and external contacts.

  • Strong problem-solving skills, ability to conduct theoretical and experimental investigations.

  • PC proficient with good MS Excel and PowerPoint.

  • Attention to detail, desire to learn and ability to prioritise tasks.

  • Able to document work clearly, with good communication, writing and reporting skills.

Candidate Desirable skills:

  • Experience in working with dispersions or nanoparticles.

  • Familiar with composite manufacturing methods.

  • Experience in working with customers and conducting product demonstration or manufacturing trials.

Our client is offering a competitive salary and equity compensation package with professional development support.