Placement Student: Formulation

Centre for Process Innovation; England; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading innovation centre in the UK is offering an exciting 12-month placement for students pursuing degrees in science or engineering. The successful candidates will join the formulation team to work on critical projects aimed at developing sustainable processes. Key duties include contributing to projects in colloid science, materials science, and automation. Ideal candidates should hold relevant A-Level qualifications and be eager to gain hands-on experience across various scientific domains. Starting in July 2026, this role doesn't offer sponsorship for work in the UK.

Qualifications

• A-Levels in relevant disciplines required.
• Strong interpersonal skills and enthusiasm essential.
• Ability to learn hands-on experience is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Support critical projects in formulation across multiple sectors.
• Contribute to sustainable packaging and battery materials.
• Maintain automated systems for high-throughput activities.

Skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Technical problem-solving

Team collaboration

Judgement and initiative

Education

A-Levels in Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or related subject

Job description

Overview

CPI has an exciting opportunity for students working toward a degree in science or engineering to join the Formulation team at our National Formulation Centre in Sedgefield. You will support a range of critical projects, from lab‑scale to pilot‑scale, helping to develop innovative approaches that promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Teams

• Colloid Science – Develop and optimise colloidal systems such as gels, emulsions, and aerosols. Work across pharmaceuticals, food, personal care, agritech, and coatings, synthesising, optimising, and assessing performance using advanced scientific techniques.
• Materials Science – Lead projects in sustainable packaging, battery materials, healthcare, personal care, and additive manufacturing (3D printing). Formulate and fabricate next‑generation materials in state‑of‑the‑art laboratories, applying chemical, physical or engineering knowledge acquired to date.
• Nanomaterials – Contribute to the Nanomaterials group within the batteries and conductive materials sector. Work on liquid polymers, synthesis optimisation, scale‑up of energetic materials, electrochemical testing of energy devices, and electrode characterisation at the AMBIC facility on NETPark.
• Automation & Digital – Maintain automated systems that support high‑throughput activities. Translate traditional laboratory processes into digitally enabled, continuous manufacturing techniques, and develop smart technologies, data analytics, and process control solutions to enhance innovation and efficiency.

What We’re Looking For

Applicants should hold A‑Level (or equivalent) qualifications in Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Biologics, or a related subject and be studying toward a degree in one of the relevant disciplines.

Ideal candidates are enthusiastic, possess strong interpersonal skills, and are eager to learn hands‑on experience. Demonstrated technical problem‑solving skills, collaboration across teams, and initiative in applying judgement and seeking advice are essential.

These positions are suitable for students with a sandwich year in industry or those able to undertake a placement between academic years.

Company

At CPI, we translate inventions into products and processes that improve health, well‑being, and environmental outcomes while enhancing productivity across industries. We support next‑generation manufacturing, highly skilled jobs, and economic growth for the UK.

Additional Information

• Fixed term: 12 months, beginning July 2026.
• Specify the area you wish to apply for in your application so it reaches the appropriate hiring manager.
• We cannot offer sponsorship for this role.
• Commencement of employment is conditional upon demonstrating right to work in the UK.