Product Development Scientist

ZipRecruiter; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative biotechnology start-up in Cambridge is seeking a Product Development Scientist to work on the formulation of novel materials for packaging. The role involves designing and conducting experiments, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and supporting scale-up activities. Ideal candidates will have a degree in Chemistry or Materials Science and experience in product development. This opportunity offers a collaborative environment focused on impactful innovation.

Qualifications

• Degree-level qualification in a relevant field.
• Previous experience in product development.
• Strong data analysis and report writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Formulate resin systems for coatings.
• Translate concepts into manufacturable prototypes.
• Design experiments and analyze data.

Skills

Product development

Data analysis

Reporting skills

Project management

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline

Job description

Job Description

Cranleigh STEM is working in partnership with an innovative and fast-growing biotechnology start-up who are recruiting a Product Development Scientist to join its R&D team. This role offers the opportunity to work on the formulation and development of novel materials designed for use in consumer and industrial applications, with an initial focus on packaging.

The company operates at the intersection of materials science, sustainability, and commercial product development, offering the right candidate a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful innovation within a collaborative, science-led environment.

Product Development Scientist Responsibilities

• Formulate resin systems for coatings on fibre-based substrates, targeting properties such as barrier performance, mechanical integrity, and cost-efficiency.
• Translate concepts into functional, manufacturable product prototypes aligned with commercial needs.
• Design and conduct experiments, analyse data, and document findings in line with internal R&D procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including process development, applications, and commercial teams to ensure alignment from lab to market.
• Support scale-up activities and evaluate downstream process compatibility.
• Maintain a safe and organised lab environment, including documentation such as SOPs and risk assessments.
• Present technical results to internal stakeholders and occasionally external partners or customers.
• Contribute to broader R&D initiatives across the team as required.

Product Development Scientist Requirements

• A degree-level qualification (or equivalent experience) in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
• Previous experience in product development, preferably in coatings or related sectors.
• Practical lab experience with a strong track record of safe, organised, and rigorous experimental work.
• Strong data analysis and report writing skills, with the ability to communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and work both independently and as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about applied R&D and motivated by delivering real-world solutions.
• A proactive, self-starting mindset with a willingness to contribute across a growing business.
• Experience in areas such as barrier testing, paper technology, or heat sealing is a plus but not essential.