Materials Scientist

JR United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Materials Scientist to enhance its expertise in composite and metallic materials. This role will support the technical regulations of Formula One and the broader motorsport pyramid. You will collaborate with teams, develop materials databases, and ensure compliance through inspections and audits. If you have a passion for engineering innovation and a strong background in materials science, this is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast-paced, international environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in motorsport or aerospace environments.
• In-depth knowledge of composite and metallic materials and their properties.

Responsibilities

• Establish internal materials expertise and maintain a materials database.
• Perform inspections and audits to ensure regulatory compliance in materials usage.

Skills

Analytical Thinking

Problem-Solving

Attention to Detail

Communication Skills

Education

Master’s degree in Materials Science

Tools

Analytical Testing Methods

Mechanical Testing Methods

Non-Destructive Testing Methods

Job description

The FIA is seeking an experienced Materials Scientist to join its Single Seater Technical Department.

Location:

Geneva, Switzerland (with some travel to Grands Prix, Team, and Power-unit premises)

Job Category:

Engineering / Technical

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Views:

3

Posted:

05.05.2025

Expiry Date:

19.06.2025

Job Description:

The FIA is seeking an experienced Materials Scientist to join its Single Seater Technical Department. This newly created role will reinforce the FIA’s expertise in composite and metallic materials, supporting both the Formula One Technical Regulations and the broader Single Seater pyramid (F2, F3, F4, FR).

The role will be based in the FIA offices in Geneva and will involve some travel to Grands Prix and to Team and Power-unit premises.

Responsibilities:

1. Engineering Capability Development:
2. Establish internal materials expertise (composites, metals, plastics) and associated manufacturing processes.
3. Create and maintain a materials database for the structural analysis group.
4. Provide expert input to departments including safety, aerodynamics, sustainability, and health & safety.
5. Identify material testing needs, define specifications, source test equipment, and develop partnerships with external laboratories.
6. Lead and evolve the Materials Articles of the F1 Technical Regulations, in line with FIA strategic objectives (safety, sustainability, affordability, and performance).
7. Collaborate with F1 Teams, F1 Power Unit Manufacturers, and Manufacturers of one-make formulae to ensure regulations are realistic and enforceable.
8. Ensure regulations account for health and safety legislation across different countries.
9. Work with the FIA Sustainability Department, Teams, and Materials suppliers to define sustainability and circularity targets and regulations.

Scrutineering and Race Support:

1. Perform inspections, tests, and audits to ensure regulatory compliance in materials usage.
2. Attend selected races and test events to support on-site scrutineering (training will be provided).

Profile:

1. Master’s degree or higher in Materials Science.
2. Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in motorsport or aerospace environments.
3. Fluent in English (native or C2 level required); basic knowledge of French is an asset.
4. In-depth knowledge of composite and metallic materials, their properties, and associated production processes.
5. Experience with analytical, mechanical, and non-destructive testing methods.
6. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail.
7. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including drafting clear technical documentation (regulations, reports).
8. Comfortable working autonomously in a fast-paced, international environment.
9. Organized, proactive, and passionate about engineering innovation.