Lead R&D Chemist

NES Fircroft; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a Lead R&D Chemist to spearhead research and application development projects focused on process improvements and novel product development. This role involves designing technical programmes, conducting high-quality experimental work, and utilizing advanced analytical techniques. The successful candidate will play a key role in enhancing product performance and supporting scale-up activities. Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to sustainability and innovation in the wood-based product industry, where your expertise will contribute to meaningful advancements in specialty chemicals and biomaterials.

Qualifications

• Hold an MSc or Degree in Chemistry.
• Experience in an industrial research laboratory, particularly in Biomass processing.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead technical development programmes with a focus on safety.
• Analyse and interpret experimental data, providing recommendations.
• Develop tests to assess performance of existing or new products.

Skills

Analytical Chemistry

Data Analysis

Safety Management

Biomass Processing

Renewable Energy

Education

MSc in Chemistry

Degree in Chemistry

Tools

HPLC

GC

GPC

FTIR

Job description

Our client develops new processes and innovative technologies that diversify their wood-based product range. Producing specialty chemicals, functional biomaterials, and food ingredients from woody biomass, their products are truly sustainable. Due to continued growth and success, our client is now looking to add a Lead R&D Chemist to lead and carry out research and application development projects in the areas of process and product improvements and the development of new and novel products.

Responsibilities:

1. Design and lead technical development programmes and carry out high-quality experimental work with a strong focus on safety.
2. Analyse, manage, and interpret experimental data, record and report findings, and provide recommendations for further activities.
3. Carry out analysis using techniques such as HPLC, GC, GPC, FTIR; develop methods and adopt new techniques as required.
4. Develop tests to assess the performance of existing or newly developed products in relevant commercial application areas.
5. Work at laboratory scale and small pilot scale (up to 20L).
6. Support process design for scale-up activities and assist pilot plant operations at remote locations.
7. Provide technical support in discussions with external technology providers and commercial teams.

Qualifications & Experience:

1. Hold an MSc or Degree in Chemistry.
2. Previous experience in an industrial research laboratory, particularly in Biomass processing and/or Renewable Energy.
3. Experience with laboratory analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC, GPC, FTIR.