Research Scientist - Surface Science and Materials

The Lubrizol Corporation; Shottlegate; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Industry-leading multinational backed

Inclusive and empowering culture

Competitive compensation and benefits

Professional development

Sustainable innovation

Job summary

The Lubrizol Corporation in the United Kingdom is seeking a Research Scientist to join the Analytical and Physical Science group within our global R&D division. You will apply surface science expertise to advance technology, support product innovation, and lead cross-disciplinary projects to deliver solutions.

As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will design advanced analytical methods, provide technical foresight, and communicate insights to stakeholders.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline.
• Laboratory experience in surface science and materials analysis.
• Hands-on expertise with SEM/TEM, EDS, XPS, and/or Auger spectroscopy.
• Ability to integrate multiple analytical techniques.
• Strong understanding of material properties and performance.
• Project management and prioritization skills; strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proficiency with scientific and IT tools.

Responsibilities

• Apply expertise in surface and materials science to solve complex business challenges.
• Develop fundamental understanding of fluid performance and support product innovation.
• Lead research projects from concept through completion.
• Design and implement advanced analytical methods.
• Provide technical foresight as a subject matter expert.
• Communicate insights to internal and external stakeholders.
• Build partnerships with academic and industry collaborators.
• Lead cross-disciplinary project teams aligned with business goals.

Skills

Surface science

Materials analysis

SEM/TEM

XPS

EDS

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

IT tools

Education

PhD in Chemistry or Materials Science

Tools

SEM

TEM

EDS

XPS

XRD

Job description

Research Scientist - Surface Science and Materials

2026-09-19T00:00:00

Belper

Derbyshire

GB

DE56 1

Any

2026-12-20T11:05:46.477

Shape the Future with Us. At Lubrizol, we're bringing to life the chemistry behind clean water, efficient transportation, reliable infrastructure, critical medicines, and the products people rely on every day through science, sustainability, and a culture of inclusion. As part of our global team, you'll be empowered to make a real impact - on your career, your community, and the world around you.

Location and Working Conditions

• Location: Hazelwood, Derbyshire, United Kingdom
• Travel: Limited travel may be required
• Job Type: Full-time, 4 days on site - 1 day flexible Shift + Hours: Standard business hours

Job Overview

Due to several exciting projects, we are actively looking for a Research Scientist to join our Analytical and Physical Science group within our global Research and Development division. The Analytical and Physical Science group is a global multidisciplinary team of chemical engineers, mechanical engineers, physicists, and chemists who are accountable for being a source of innovative technical solutions on longer-term research initiatives.

You will be responsible for providing the technical foresight to ensure continued technology leadership in our current business activities and to provide the necessary technical solutions to expand into new business areas. A physical sciences background and practical experience of Surface Science and Materials Analysis techniques is required.

How You'll Make an Impact

• Apply expertise in surface and materials science to solve complex business challenges
• Develop fundamental understanding of fluid performance and support product innovation
• Lead research projects from concept through completion
• Design and implement advanced analytical methods
• Provide technical foresight as a subject matter expert
• Communicate insights to internal and external stakeholders
• Build partnerships with academic and industry collaborators
• Lead cross-disciplinary project teams aligned with business goals

Required Qualifications that Enable Your Success

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline
• Laboratory experience in surface science and materials analysis
• Hands-on expertise with SEM/TEM, EDS, XPS, and/or Auger spectroscopy
• Ability to integrate multiple analytical techniques
• Strong understanding of material properties and performance
• Project management and prioritization skillsStrong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Proficiency with scientific and IT tools

Preferred Qualifications that Drive You Forward

• Experience mentoring or supervising researchers
• Knowledge of AFM, QCM, Raman/IR spectroscopy, XRD, or X-ray CT
• Familiarity with tribology and lubrication science

Your Work Environment

Work in a laboratory environment using advanced analytical equipment, with appropriate PPE and strict adherence to safety protocols. Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team and utilize digital tools for data analysis and reporting.

Benefits that Empower You

• Industry-leading multinational backed by Berkshire Hathaway
• Inclusive and empowering culture
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Professional development and career mobility
• Meaningful work driving sustainable innovation

#LI-MC1 #LI-Hybrid #LBZEU

About Lubrizol

Lubrizol: Imagined for Life. Enabled by Science. Delivered by You. For nearly 100 years, The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, has been at the forefront of innovation to enhance everyday life, advance mobility, and make the modern world work better. Our specialty chemistry solutions—from engine oils, performance coatings, and skincare to medical devices and plumbing systems—are powered by the expertise, passion, and commitment of people like you.

We tackle the world's toughest challenges with science-based solutions, deeply understanding our customers to deliver innovative chemistry and differentiated value. Our inclusive culture, dedication to safety, and incredible global talent drive our success. Our solutions meet the evolving needs of the modern world—brought to life by science and, most importantly, delivered by you.

Whether you're in the lab, on the production floor, or in the office, you'll be part of a team around the world that empowers you to think boldly, drive results, and contribute to solutions that shape a better, more sustainable future. We win because of you. Let's build the future together.