Chemical Design & Synthesis Placement Student

The Lubrizol Corporation; Shottlegate; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A global chemical technology company located in the UK is looking for a Chemical Design & Synthesis Placement Student. This role involves conducting organic synthesis experiments and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Ideal candidates are enrolled in a chemistry undergraduate program and have a passion for organic chemistry. The position offers competitive salary, generous holiday entitlement, and flexible working hours.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Discretionary performance-based bonus

Generous holiday entitlement

Flexible working hours

Subsidised sports and social club memberships

Access to on-site restaurant facilities

Free car parking

Qualifications

• Proactive, experimental mindset necessary for chemical synthesis.
• Strong academic record with a minimum anticipated 2:1 degree.
• Ability to prepare formal experimental write-ups.

Responsibilities

• Conduct organic synthesis experiments from <1 L to 20 L scale.
• Design experiments and optimise processes during product development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams globally.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Analytical interpretation

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Enrollment in a chemistry-related undergraduate degree

Job description

Overview

As a Chemical Design & Synthesis Placement Student, you will play a vital role in discovering innovative chemistry solutions. Utilizing your creativity and problem-solving skills, you\'ll work closely with experienced Research and Technical Scientists performing real-world laboratory research projects. This placement offers exposure to the entire product development and process optimisation lifecycle, from early-stage synthesis to scaling processes to larger volumes.

Responsibilities

• Conduct organic synthesis experiments ranging from <1 L to 20 L scale, applying rigorous safety and quality standards.
• Participate in the full product development cycle by designing experiments, optimising processes, and communicating findings.
• Collaborate regularly with cross-functional teams including technology development, analytical chemistry, and performance testing departments worldwide to enhance product performance and technical applications.
• Interpret complex analytical data carefully to draw meaningful conclusions and produce comprehensive, formal experimental documentation and reports.
• Contribute to advancing next-generation specialty chemical components that align with Lubrizol\'s mission of delivering sustainable and high-impact solutions.

About Lubrizol

We believe that science excels where people make a difference. At Lubrizol, our passionate teams work collaboratively to solve complex challenges and improve lives through innovation and sustainability. We are continually evolving and learning, striving to deliver outstanding results for our colleagues, customers, and communities. Lubrizol is committed to equality and diversity; we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and ensure all applicants are assessed based on their skills and merits.

This placement is ideal for a student passionate about organic and polymer chemistry seeking invaluable hands-on experience within a global innovation environment. The successful candidate will possess:

Qualifications

• Enrollment in a chemistry-related undergraduate degree course, progressing towards or currently undertaking a year in industry, with a strong academic record (minimum 2:1 degree achievement anticipated).
• A keen interest in organic synthesis, polymer chemistry, or related fields, paired with a proactive, experimental mindset.
• Ability to confidently interpret analytical results and prepare formal experimental write-ups with attention to technical detail.
• A commitment to working safely and responsibly within a laboratory setting, adhering to all relevant protocols and standards.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, embracing collaboration within a diverse, international scientific team.

The application process is straightforward. Create a profile, upload your CV and cover letter, and tell us about your motivation for joining Lubrizol. Please note that applicants must be eligible to work in the UK for the duration of the placement and have completed at least two years of an undergraduate degree without graduating prior to the placement start.

Lubrizol may not be a household name, but our advanced chemical technologies significantly impact everyday life—from enhancing vehicle fluids and surfaces to improving personal care products like shampoos and pharmaceuticals. As part of Berkshire Hathaway, Lubrizol combines unparalleled chemistry expertise with market insights to deliver innovative solutions worldwide.

Joining Lubrizol means becoming part of an inclusive and dynamic workplace where your contributions support sustainable mobility, wellbeing, and modern life enhancements. This is an excellent opportunity to gain invaluable industry experience, develop professional skills, and work on projects that make a real difference globally.

Benefits

• Competitive salary reflective of your qualifications and experience.
• Discretionary performance-based bonus.
• Generous holiday entitlement of 33 days inclusive of 8 bank holidays.
• Access to a competitive pension scheme ensuring long-term security.
• Flexible working hours to support work-life balance.
• Opportunities to support your final year project, integrating academic learning with practical application.
• Subsidised sports and social club memberships at some locations, fostering community and wellbeing.
• Convenient subsidised on-site restaurant facilities available at select sites.
• Free car parking to ease your commute.