Scientist – Polymer Chemistry / Polymer Synthesis – R&D Full Time

Our Client is a leading international manufacturer and supplier of specialty chemicals. They are now seeking a Scientist – Polymer Chemistry / Polymer Synthesis. This position is a full time permanent role and will be based in Bradford, West Yorkshire.

Job Purpose

The role will be required to carry out experimental work supporting the development of new polymer and microencapsulation technologies and products, and/or of new specialty acrylate polymers for a diverse range of consumer and industrial markets

This will also include designing and running experiments that support problem solving and improvements in current products or manufacturing processes, as well as future new transformational products

The role will be highly varied and will interact with applications, production, and business/marketing functions, as well as other R&D teams globally

Key Responsibilities

To work flexibly, primarily laboratory based, on varied polymer and encapsulation development projects, both short and longer term, supporting a range of end use applications that include personal care (hair, skin, oral health; home/fabric care) and industrial (energy, adhesives, coatings,) applications

To design and carry out laboratory experiments that support R&D project / new product concepts for microencapsulates and/or specialty polymers including acrylate or emulsion/dispersion polymers

To troubleshoot and develop solutions for current challenges in production or in-market performance, working with, and supporting technical, production, marketing and sales personnel

Preparation and characterisation of polymer based microparticles or microcapsules with encapsulated actives

Support the scale up of new products

To record, analyse, and accurately write up and present the results of laboratory experiments

Qualifications and Experience

Either a PhD in a directly relevant field, or a BSc/MSc in a chemistry/polymer related subject with solid experience in a directly relevant field. Relevant experience / fields include one or more of:

polymer syntheses, especially free radical/emulsion polymerisations or acrylic polymers or core shell particles

microencapsulation or controlled release technologies

polymer colloids/dispersions

Excellent written and oral communication skills, being fluent in English.

A team player mentality, but one who is also able to work independently

An attitude and willingness to help support the wider operations of an R&D laboratory site where all support each other and contribute to smooth and safe operations

A willingness to work in a laboratory environment in a hands-on role.

A working culture which is clearly safety oriented

The ability to think broadly and contribute to a range of problem-solving challenges and to contribute to wider polymer project concepts.

An ability to work under pressure and organise your work to meet time bound deadlines

Knowledge of how to search, review and identify key learnings from scientific or patent literature

Knowledge of, or experience in, sustainable polymer technologies would be an advantage, though not essential.

In return our client is offering a competitive basic salary plus comprehensive benefits and the ability to work in a truly dynamic environment.

Please e-mail your C.V, together with a covering letter to Lorraine Roger, Director, Atom Recruitment Ltd.