Research And Development Chemist

Forgeway Limited; Exeter; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Forgeway Ltd in Exeter is seeking a Chemistry graduate to join the Research & Development team, starting a career in industrial research and development. You'll gain hands-on experience developing and testing new adhesive and sealant formulations while learning how products move from the lab to full-scale manufacturing.

From day one you'll be involved in meaningful projects and supported to expand your technical knowledge and professional skills, working alongside experienced chemists and

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science or related field (BSc or MSc).
• Practical laboratory experience from university projects or placements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and organisational skills.
• Willingness to learn and collaborate.

Responsibilities

• Assist with development and improvement of adhesive and sealant formulations.
• Prepare and test laboratory samples using analytical and application techniques.
• Evaluate product performance and record/test results.
• Support product trials and manufacturing scale-up activities.
• Investigate technical issues and contribute to product improvements.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and documentation.
• Collaborate with R&D, Quality, Production and Sales on new developments.
• Follow safety procedures and good working practices.

Skills

Chemistry

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Learning

Education

BSc or MSc in Chemistry or related

Job description

Forgeway Ltd is a leading UK manufacturer of high-performance adhesives and sealants, supplying industries including aerospace, automotive, construction, rail and transportation. Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, and we're looking for a motivated Chemistry graduate to join our Research & Development team and help shape the next generation of adhesive technologies.

If you're curious, enjoy solving technical problems, and want to see your ideas become real products used around the world, we'd love to hear from you.

The Role

This is a fantastic opportunity for a Chemistry graduate to begin their career in industrial research and development. Working alongside experienced chemists, you'll gain hands-on experience developing and testing new adhesive and sealant formulations while learning how products move from the laboratory into full-scale manufacturing.

From day one, you'll be involved in meaningful projects and supported to develop your technical knowledge and professional skills.

What You'll Be Doing

• Assist with the development and improvement of adhesive and sealant formulations.
• Prepare and test laboratory samples using a range of analytical and application techniques.
• Evaluate product performance, recording and analysing test results.
• Support product trials and manufacturing scale-up activities.
• Help investigate technical issues and contribute to continuous product improvement.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and technical documentation.
• Work closely with colleagues across R&D, Quality, Production and Sales on new product developments.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and good working practices.

What We're Looking For

• A degree in Chemistry, Materials Science or a related scientific discipline (BSc or MSc).
• A genuine interest in chemistry, materials and product development.
• Practical laboratory experience gained through university projects or placements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and organisational skills.
• A willingness to learn, ask questions and work collaboratively.
• Enthusiasm, curiosity and a proactive approach to developing new skills.

Industrial experience is not essential – we're looking for someone with the right attitude, a solid scientific foundation and the enthusiasm to build a long-term career in R&D.

We encourage applications from recent graduates as well as experienced Chemists.

What We Offer

• A permanent, full-time position with structured training and mentoring.
• The opportunity to work on products used across a wide range of industries.
• Clear career progression within our growing technical team.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.