Junior Lab Chemist, Polymer & Materials R&D (London)

STEM Recruiters UK; Greater London; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

STEM Recruiters UK is seeking a Junior Laboratory Chemist for a hands-on, on-site role in the London area. You will support polymer and materials research, including synthesis, formulation, sample preparation, chemical analysis, instrument operation, data recording, and technical reporting.

The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, follow good laboratory practice, and contribute ideas to expand the research.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Practical experience in polymer synthesis, materials chemistry, formulation, or chemical analysis.
• Familiarity with analytical and characterisation techniques such as FTIR, NMR, GPC, SEM, TEM, DSC, TGA, UV Vis, or related methods.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high quality data.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast paced, results focused laboratory environment.
• Good problem solving skills and a practical, hands on approach to experimental work.
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
• Ability to present technical findings clearly through reports, data summaries, and verbal updates.
• A proactive, can do attitude with the confidence to think beyond routine procedures.
• Industry, internship, placement, or applied research experience is highly desirable.
• Strong awareness of laboratory safety, chemical handling, and good laboratory practice.

Responsibilities

• Conducting laboratory experiments related to polymer synthesis, formulation, and materials characterisation.
• Preparing, handling, and analysing polymer, chemical, and material samples.
• Supporting experimental design, optimisation, and troubleshooting.
• Operating and supporting routine use of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
• Working with techniques such as FTIR, NMR, GPC, SEM, TEM, DSC, TGA, UV Vis, and general wet chemistry methods.
• Maintaining accurate experimental records, lab notebooks, and technical documentation.
• Producing clear summaries of results, observations, and data for internal and client facing review.
• Supporting quality control, calibration, and good laboratory practice.
• Working efficiently to generate reliable data that supports technical and commercial objectives.
• Communicating clearly with colleagues, technical partners, and international stakeholders.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Materials chemistry

Chemical analysis

Laboratory techniques

Data reporting

Clear English communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Polymer Chemistry or Materials Science

Tools

FTIR

NMR

GPC

SEM

TEM

DSC

TGA

UV-Vis

Job description

STEM Recruiters UK is seeking a Junior Laboratory Chemist for a hands-on, on-site role in the London area. You will support polymer and materials research, including synthesis, formulation, sample preparation, chemical analysis, instrument operation, data recording, and technical reporting.

The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, follow good laboratory practice, and contribute ideas to expand the research.