Head Of R&D

Smart4Chemical; Gayton; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology-driven company in the UK is seeking a highly motivated Head of R&D to lead the Research & Development department. This strategic role involves managing the R&D lab, driving innovative product development, and ensuring quality procedures. Candidates should have a PhD in Inorganic Chemistry or a related field, strong communication skills, and a hands-on mentality. Experience with analytical methods and process design is preferred. Travel may be required.

Qualifications

• PhD in Inorganic Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in process design and scale-up is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the R&D laboratory and associated personnel.
• Drive development of innovative new products and explore advanced chemistry.
• Establish and optimise analytical methods and quality parameters.

Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Creative and 'out-of-the-box' thinking

Practical mentality

Experience with analytical methods

Comfortable working in a small team

Education

PhD in Inorganic Chemistry or related fields

Tools

Spectroscopy

Job description

I am seeking a highly motivated Head of R&D to lead our Research & Development department. This is a key strategic role within a technology-driven company operating at the forefront of advanced inorganic and functional materials.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the R&D laboratory, Pilot Plant, and associated personnel.
• Drive the development of innovative new products and explore advanced chemistry aligned with company strategy.
• Establish and optimise analytical methods and quality parameters.
• Develop manufacturing processes for new products, including scale-up to pilot level.
• Ensure robust quality and analytical procedures that guarantee product functionality.
• Provide technical service support to Sales and customers.
• Identify and develop new applications for existing and new products.
• Support the Production department in resolving technical or process issues.
• Define equipment and technical standards according to operational needs.
• Oversee Health & Safety aspects within the laboratory environment and ensure compliance with all regulations.

Requirements

PhD in Inorganic Chemistry, Materials Science, Mineralogy, Polymer Science, or closely related fields.

Preferably experienced in one or more of the following areas:

• Materials for solar cells
• Light-material interactions
• Photocatalysis
• Photochromic, luminescent, or phosphorescent materials
• UV/VIS/NIR/Laser absorption or reflection
• Nanoparticle synthesis
• Solid-state synthesis

Knowledge of at least one foreign language preferred.

Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Experience in process design and scale-up is advantageous.

Practical, hands‑on mentality with creative and "out‑of‑the‑box" thinking.

Willingness to perform practical laboratory work.

Experience with analytical methods, especially spectroscopy.

Comfortable working in a small, dynamic team under time pressure.

Willingness to travel occasionally.

If this is of interest, apply with an up‑to‑date copy of your CV; for further information reach out to Rebecca Tilston @smart4chemicals