R&D Scientist

Element Solutions Inc; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous performance related bonus scheme

Company pension

Health cash plan

Training and development

25 days holiday per year plus bank holidays

Job summary

Element Solutions Inc is seeking a technically capable R&D Scientist to advance our chemical products and technologies. This role offers hands-on experimentation and rigorous data analysis, supporting new product development and improvements.

Candidates should possess a Master's degree in materials science or chemistry, laboratory experience, and a passion for science. We offer a competitive salary, a performance-related bonus, and opportunities for career growth, with a focus on learning and development.

Qualifications

• Higher education in scientific subjects, preferably a Master's degree.
• Previous laboratory experience, ideally with polyurethane, epoxy, or silicone.
• Comfortable with experimental challenges and iterative learning.

Responsibilities

• Develop coating, potting & thermal interface materials.
• Conduct routine testing including tensile and electrical screening.
• Prepare samples and data packs to support marketing teams.

Skills

Problem solving

Data analysis

Teamwork

Laboratory skills

IT literacy

Education

Master's degree in materials science or chemistry

Job description

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.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a curious, technically capable R&D Scientist to contribute to the development and improvement of chemical products and technologies across our global business. This role is ideal for a scientist who enjoys hands‑on experimentation, rigorous data analysis, and working collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams to translate scientific ideas into practical, commercial outcomes.

You will be part of an innovative R&D organisation supporting both new product development and continuous improvement initiatives.

What will you be doing?

• Development of Coating, Potting & Thermal Interface materials
• Conduct routine testing, including tensile, rheology, electrical screening and update relevant quality databases
• Conduct routine application screening, including using automated spraying and dispensing equipment
• Arrange for calibration of equipment
• Prepare samples and data packs to support marketing and sales teams
• Prepare standard operating procedures, risk and COSHH assessments
• Monitor the supply of consumables and raw materials used in the R&D laboratory, coordinate and consolidate replenishments internally and raise purchase requisitions for external suppliers
• Maintain and update relevant R&D databases
• Continually maintain and champion good housekeeping standards, including waste disposal
• Work in accordance with the Company’s Health and Safety policy and complete training when required
• Work in accordance with the Company’s quality system and update computer data as applicable

Who are You?

Ideally you will have:

• Higher education in scientific subjects; a Master's degree in materials science or chemistry is desirable.
• Previous laboratory experience. Experience within an industrial setting working with polyurethane, epoxy or silicone materials is desirable, along with experience of tensile, rheology, and electrical screening
• Naturally curious, with a passion for science and problem‑solving
• Methodical and detail‑oriented, valuing accuracy and reproducibility
• Collaborative, enjoying teamwork and knowledge sharing
• Resilient and patient, comfortable with experimental challenges and iterative learning
• Responsible and safety‑minded, particularly in hazardous laboratory environments
• Motivated to learn, with a desire to grow as a scientist in an industrial setting
• Comfortable working in a laboratory environment and the wearing of PPE

What competencies will you need?

• IT literate and competent with Microsoft office or similar programs
• Practical approach to work with the ability to set priorities and solve problems
• Problem solving methodologies including six sigma and design of experiments
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work on own initiative and as part of a team #LI-ED1

We are Offering...

Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future - as part of our team here, as well as receiving a competitive base salary, you will also participate in a generous performance related bonus scheme. In addition, you will receive a company pension, life assurance, a health cash plan, and training and development, as well as 25 days holiday a year plus bank holidays. The Ashby site is situated close to the main motorway links and amenities; there is also free onsite parking.

Career Growth - we provide a challenging, but rewarding experience to our people - you will have an opportunity to learn, grow and contribute from your very first day. Our teams play an important role enabling technological breakthroughs in high growth industries around the world. We continuously invest in technologies and extensive learning and development tools which provide opportunities to challenge, develop and nurture your career.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.