Materials Researcher

Foster & Partners; City Of London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architectural firm in the City of London is seeking a candidate to provide essential research and information service regarding materials for various projects. Responsibilities include maintaining the sample library, assisting architects in sourcing materials, and offering research support. Candidates should have good research and computer skills, with a background in Industrial Design or Architecture being advantageous. The role requires a proactive approach to tasks and the ability to manage sensitive information.

Qualifications

• Good research skills are required for effective information gathering.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe software is essential.
• A qualification in design or architecture is highly beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Provide a Daily Information and Research Service for materials and products.
• Maintain and update the MRC sample library and conduct ongoing research.
• Assist architects in locating materials for their projects.

Skills

Research skills

Computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop

Initiative and proactive approach

Education

Qualification or experience in Industrial Design or Architecture

Job description

Job Responsibilities & Qualifications

• The provision of a Daily Information and Research Service
• Provision of information on the materials/companies located in the MRC
• Assist the Architects/Designers in locating materials/products/companies for their relevant projects
• Provide information on alternative materials or materials not previously considered
• The maintenance and updating of the MRC sample library
• Digitally photographing and the databasing of new samples coming into the MRC
• Maintain the organisation of the existing samples in the MRC, identify gaps in the sample library
• Updating existing samples in the MRC by regular contact with representatives of the Manufacturers/companies via phone, meetings etc
• Oversee and carry out research for architects on any aspect of their projects
• Maintain company and contact database
• Carry out detailed research/ongoing research for partners and senior partners
• In-depth research on thematic or sustainable issues of materials and technologies
• Undertake in-house or collaborate with industry in material/product development and experimentation
• Provide knowledge feedback on the correct usage of different types of materials in different applications
• Provide knowledge feedback on materials/products/companies used on Foster+ Partners Projects
• Able to demonstrate ability to undertake the above responsibilities
• Legally able to work in the country in which the position is based
• Good research skills
• Good computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe illustrator, Photoshop
• General understanding of architecture terminology
• Able to demonstrate initiative and a proactive approach to daily tasks
• Able to manage sensitive and sometimes confidential information
• A qualification or experience in Industrial Design or Architecture would be hugely beneficial.