Research And Development Scientist

Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative materials technology company in Cambridge seeks an R&D Scientist to join its Applications team. This role involves developing sustainable alternatives to traditional plastics, focusing on coatings and films, while supporting customer engagement and engaging in R&D projects that advance sustainability.

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemistry or related field or equivalent experience.
• Hands-on experience in a laboratory environment.
• Organized approach to data collection and documentation.

Responsibilities

• Support sample preparation and testing for coatings and films.
• Gather, analyze, and present experimental data.
• Contribute to writing technical documents.

Skills

Experimental skills

Data analysis

Communication

Interest in sustainability

Education

Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Packaging

Job description

We’re working in partnership with an exciting materials technology company based in Cambridge that’s developing natural alternatives to traditional plastics. Due to sustained growth, the team is now recruiting for an R&D Scientist to join its Applications team.

As their R&D Scientist, you’ll play a key role in turning breakthrough science into commercially viable, sustainable solutions. You’ll be involved in the development, preparation, and testing of coatings and films, helping to bring new products to market and support customer engagement.

R&D Scientist responsibilities:

• Support sample preparation, testing and reporting for coatings and films
• Assist in the development and characterisation of new formulations (including barrier and mechanical property testing)
• Gather, analyse, and present experimental data to the wider technical team
• Help with the preparation and dispatch of customer samples
• Contribute to writing technical documents, including procedures and risk assessments
• Develop and improve internal test methods and lab practices
• Support wider R&D projects and help keep the lab running smoothly

R&D Scientist requirements

• A degree qualification in Chemistry, Materials Science, Packaging, or related field – or equivalent experience
• Hands-on experience in a laboratory environment and strong experimental skills
• A methodical, organised approach to data collection and documentation
• The ability to clearly communicate technical findings to different audiences
• A keen interest in sustainability and alternative technologies
• Familiarity with coatings, paper or packaging technology is a plus – but not essential
• A proactive, can-do attitude and the ability to adapt in a fast-moving setting

Why Join?

This is an exciting opportunity to join a purpose-led business at the forefront of sustainable materials innovation. You’ll be part of a team that values curiosity, teamwork, and doing things the right way – for people and planet.