Research Chemist (KTP Associate)

Nottingham Trent University; Wideopen; Hybrid; GBP 39,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training budget

Development time for PD

Job summary

Nottingham Trent University is seeking a Research Chemist (KTP Associate) to lead a knowledge transfer project with Doff Portland Ltd. Based primarily at the partner site, you will drive an ambitious R&D programme that combines academic insight with practical product development.

The role requires a PhD in Chemical Sciences or closely related field and offers a fixed-term, 34-month contract with a competitive salary and a dedicated training budget to support your professional development.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Sciences or closely related discipline.

Responsibilities

• Lead a knowledge transfer project between NTU and Doff Portland.
• Deliver an ambitious R&D programme to enhance technical and innovation capabilities.

Education

PhD in Chemical Sciences

Job description

Job reference: 550153

Location: Hybrid

Employment type: Fixed Term Contract

Team: Chemistry and Forensics

Closing date: 12/10/2026

School / Directorate: School of Science and Technology

Salary / Grade: See special conditions

Where to find us: location_on Get directions

Force for Good.

Doing things differently.

Research Chemist (KTP Associate)

Salary- £39,984 per annum

Full time /Fixed term for 34 months

This role requires offsite working at the premises of our commercial partner Doff Portland Ltd. (NG15 6DW)

About The Role

We wish to recruit an energetic, insightful and adaptable individual who holds a PhD in Chemical Sciences, or a closely related discipline, and can translate theoretical knowledge into practical application by leading a strategically important innovation project within Doff Portland.

Working as a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate, you will be based primarily at Doff Portland and will take responsibility for delivering an ambitious research and development programme designed to enhance the company's technical and innovation capabilities. The role offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface between academic research and commercial product development, applying scientific expertise to address real-world industry challenges.

For more details, please take a look at the role profile. We'll still consider applications even if you don't meet every single one of the requirements, so don't be put off if you don't match them perfectly.

Interview Date: 15th October 2026

About Doff Portland

Doff Portland, part of the Pelsis Group, is a leading manufacturer and supplier of home and garden products, specialising in pest control, weed control and plant care solutions for domestic and retail markets.

The company develops, manufactures and distributes an extensive portfolio of biocides, herbicides, fertilisers and environmentally responsible pest control products, supplying major UK retailers, garden centres and international distribution networks. Doff has established a strong market position through both branded and white-label product ranges, with particular strengths in ready-to-use formulations and sustainable solutions that support responsible gardening practices.

About The Project

As a KTP Associate, you will work within Doff Portland to develop and embed knowledge, systems and capabilities, with research and academic support from Nottingham Trent University under the supervision of Professor Gareth Cave.

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships offer the ideal opportunity to apply your academic expertise through a real-world business challenge while accelerating your professional development.

• The programme includes a dedicated training and development budget of up to £5,667 and 10% of your time is ring-fenced for personal and professional development activities.

Please note that if you are applying for this position, you should not previously have been employed as a KTP Associate.

If you have queries about this role, please contact Professor Gareth Cave ([e-mail]).

Safe and Inclusive

At NTU, we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports and celebrates the diverse voices and experiences of our students and colleagues. By championing positive wellbeing, we promote an environment where all can thrive and reach their full potential. We welcome the unique contributions that you can bring and we encourage people from underrepresented communities and backgrounds to apply to join our team.

Please note that unfortunately, this role has been assessed as ineligible for sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration points-based immigration system however, we recommend that you assess your eligibility before applying for this position. For more information visit the Government Skilled Worker visa support page. However, applications are welcome from candidates who do not currently have the right to work in the UK, but who would be eligible to obtain a valid visa via another route. Please consult the Home Office website for further information.

Please note that this role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) and successful applicants will be asked to declare any unspent criminal convictions.