R&D Chemist
MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions is seeking an R&D Chemist at our Wantage site to advance polymer science through fundamental studies and DoE-driven projects. You will develop testing methods, analyze materials, and collaborate across functions in a safety-conscious lab environment.
The role offers 25 days holiday, a starting salary of £32,500 per annum, a performance-based bonus, private medical insurance, pension benefits, subsidised onsite canteen and parking, and ongoing professional
Qualifications
- Bachelor's/masters/PhD in chemistry or materials science with lab experience.
- Experience in R&D laboratory environment, industrial experience advantageous.
- Knowledge of polymer and materials science and analytical testing methods.
- Strong communication skills and proactive, team-oriented mindset.
Responsibilities
- Conduct fundamental polymer and materials science research to support new and existing products and technologies.
- Develop and refine test methods to understand polymer behavior and material performance.
- Plan and execute Design of Experiments (DoE) with statistical analysis.
- Operate and manage laboratory analytical equipment to support R&D activities.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
Business Unit: MAES
Division: Film & Smart Surface Solutions
MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions, a business segment of Element Solutions Inc (NYSE: ESI), is renowned worldwide for its commitment to revolutionizing the electronics industry. With a legacy spanning over a century, we have continually set new benchmarks for excellence, reliability and sustainability in electronic materials.
- Wafer Level Packaging - Revolutionizing wafer fabrication processes for enhanced efficiency and performance
- Circuitry Solutions - Tailored solutions to meet the dynamic demands of modern circuitry
- Electronics Assembly Solutions - Innovating semiconductor, surface mount technology, and power electronics assembly for unparalleled reliability
- Advanced Materials and Joining - Engineering polymer and metal joining solutions for optimally performing circuits
- Film & Smart Surface Solutions - Transforming electronics with cutting-edge materials and technologies for enhanced functionality and reliability
- Micromax – Elevating electronics through high-performing, specialized inks and pastes
Across diverse sectors including automotive, consumer electronics, mobile devices, telecom, data storage, infrastructure, and AI, MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions has earned the trust of manufacturers worldwide. Our comprehensive range of high-quality solutions and technical services enables the entire electronics supply chain, empowering businesses to thrive in today's competitive landscape.
We embody the 'Elements of our Culture'- our 5C's; Challenge, Commit, Collaborate, Choose, and Care. These core values are the foundation of our organization which our employees embrace in their interactions with customers, colleagues and other stakeholders, to drive financial performance and create a rewarding work environment.
We are looking for a proactive and self-driven individual with knowledge of polymer and materials science, or a willingness to develop this expertise through research and practical application. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, a commitment to continuous learning, and a strong safety mindset. They will communicate effectively, work collaboratively within a team, and take ownership of their responsibilities while maintaining a high level of accountability
This role is office/lab based working Monday to Friday from our Wantage site.
As an R&D Chemist, act as a key resource for the understanding of polymer science for the R&D team through fundamental studies of new and existing products, technologies and raw materials. Your responsibilities will include:
- Conducting fundamental polymer and materials science research to support the development and improvement of new and existing products and technologies.
- Developing and refining test methods to advance understanding of polymer behaviour and material performance.
- Planning and executing Design of Experiments (DoE) studies, including statistical analysis and interpretation of results.
- Operating and managing a range of material and chemical analytical equipment to support research activities.
- Providing polymer and materials science expertise to support key R&D projects and development activities.
- Investigating material properties, performance, and behaviours to generate scientific insight and drive innovation.
- Identifying opportunities to improve testing approaches, product performance, and technical understanding.
- Collaborating with R&D Chemists and cross-functional stakeholders to support project delivery and technical decision-making.
- Participating in technical discussions, providing scientific expertise and recommendations.
- Preparing, authoring, and presenting technical reports, findings, and recommendations to internal stakeholders.
- Ensuring all laboratory work is conducted in accordance with safety procedures, regulatory requirements, and best laboratory practices.
- Maintaining accurate records, equipment calibration, and good laboratory practices
- Are naturally curious
- Enjoy hands‑on work in the lab and take pride in analytical precision
- Communicate complex information clearly and effectively
- Thrive in diverse, multicultural teams across sites
- Are resilient, resourceful, and comfortable navigating ambiguity
- Bring a proactive and solution‑oriented mindset to your work
- Value both innovation and practicality—balancing creativity with technical feasibility
- Knowledge of polymer and materials science.
- Ability to relate material properties to product performance.
- Competent in analytical testing and following test methods accurately.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
- Familiarity with DOE and statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab) is advantageous.
- Excellent problem‑solving and critical‑thinking ability
- Strong project management and organisation skills
- Clear and concise written and verbal communication
- Ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional and global teams
- Adaptability to shifting priorities and evolving project scopes
- Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or related discipline (Master’s or PhD preferred, depending on specialization)
- Prior experience in an R&D laboratory environment (industrial experience highly advantageous)
- 25 days holiday (plus Bank Hols)
- For this role, we are offering a salary starting from £32,500 per annum
- Perfomance based Annual bonus scheme
- Private medical insurance
- Healthcare Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
- Life assurance
- Enhanced Company pension
- Subsidised on-site canteen
- Free on-site parking
- Shopping discounts
This role is subject to a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Employment will be conditional upon receipt of a satisfactory DBS certificate.
All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category applicable under federal, state and local laws.
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