Senior Scientist - Chemical Design & Synthesis

The Lubrizol Corporation; Shottlegate; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Pension and retirement savings

Healthcare benefits

Generous holiday allowance

Life assurance

Professional development

Employee wellbeing programs

Flexible work environment

Inclusive culture

Job summary

Lubrizol in Hazelwood, Derbyshire, United Kingdom, invites applications for a Senior Scientist – Chemical Design & Synthesis to join Corporate Research & Development. You will invent and develop novel specialty chemicals, optimize processes, and drive projects from concept to commercialization.

With 8+ years in industrial chemistry (or a PhD with post‑doc/industrial experience), you’ll lead cross‑functional teams, mentor scientists, and advance sustainability initiatives while maintaining

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry (or equivalent) with 8+ years of industrial experience in organic or polymer synthesis.
• PhD in Synthetic Chemistry with a focus on organic synthesis and relevant post‑doctoral and/or industrial experience.
• Strong laboratory experience in organic and/or polymer synthesis.
• Demonstrated ability to solve technical problems through scientific reasoning and experimental design.
• Proven record of innovation and technical accomplishments.

Responsibilities

• Invent, synthesize, and develop new molecules addressing current and emerging business needs.
• Optimize chemical processes and support scale-up activities leading to commercialization.
• Develop structure–performance relationships to guide product and project decisions.
• Lead technical projects and serve as Technical Leader for assigned programs.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a culture of innovation and learning.

Skills

Organic synthesis

Polymer synthesis

Laboratory skills

Scientific communication

Project management

ChemDraw

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemistry

PhD in Synthetic Chemistry

Tools

ChemDraw

Microsoft Office

Job description

Location:

Hazelwood, Derbyshire, United Kingdom

Travel

Limited travel for internal and external technical meetings as required

Job Type

Full-Time, Permanent, On site

Imagine Your Future at Lubrizol

At Lubrizol, we're transforming industries through science. As a Berkshire Hathaway company, we combine nearly 100 years of innovation with a commitment to sustainability, collaboration, and continuous discovery.

We're seeking a Senior Scientist – Chemical Design & Synthesis to join our Corporate Research & Development team in Hazelwood, UK. In this role, you'll apply your expertise in synthetic chemistry to invent and develop novel specialty chemicals, solve complex technical challenges, and help bring innovative solutions from concept to commercialization.

If you're energized by scientific discovery, enjoy translating ideas into practical solutions, and want to make a meaningful impact across multiple industries, we'd love to hear from you.

How You'll Make an Impact

• Invent, synthesize, and develop new molecules that address current and emerging business needs.
• Optimize chemical processes and support scale-up activities leading to commercialization.
• Develop structure-performance relationships to guide product and project decisions.
• Lead technical projects and serve as Technical Leader for assigned programs.
• Design and execute independent research to solve complex scientific challenges.
• Analyze, interpret, and communicate experimental findings to diverse stakeholders.
• Present scientific data at internal and external meetings.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a culture of innovation and learning.
• Support sustainability initiatives and other strategic R&D activities.
• Maintain safe laboratory practices and promote a strong safety culture.

Required Qualifications That Enable Your Success

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry (or equivalent) with 8+ years of industrial experience in organic or polymer synthesis, or
• PhD in Synthetic Chemistry with a focus on organic synthesis and relevant post-doctoral and/or industrial experience.
• Strong laboratory experience in organic and/or polymer synthesis.
• Demonstrated ability to solve technical problems through scientific reasoning and experimental design.
• Proven record of innovation and technical accomplishments.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills in multidisciplinary environments.
• Experience managing multiple projects and delivering results to deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and ChemDraw or equivalent scientific software.

Preferred Qualifications That Drive You Forward

• Experience with high-throughput chemistry.
• Knowledge of automation and machine learning applications within research environments.
• Experience with modelling and statistical analysis techniques.
• Process development experience, including scale-up and manufacturing support.
• Prior experience leading technical projects and mentoring colleagues.

Your Work Environment

Located just outside Derby, our Hazelwood site is Lubrizol's European Marketing and Technical Centre, providing a collaborative environment where scientific innovation thrives.

Depending On Your Role, Your Work Environment May Include

• Standing, walking, or operating laboratory equipment for extended periods.
• Working in laboratory settings using appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Using computers and digital tools for data analysis and communication.
• Adhering to rigorous safety protocols and laboratory standards.
• Occasionally lifting or moving research materials.

We continuously invest in our facilities, technologies, and people to support your wellbeing, productivity, and professional growth. If you require reasonable accommodation, we are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience.

Benefits that Empower You

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus opportunity.
• Pension and retirement savings programs.
• Comprehensive healthcare benefits.
• Generous holiday allowance.
• Life assurance coverage.
• Professional development and learning opportunities.
• Employee wellbeing programs.
• Flexible and supportive work environment.
• Inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued.

Ready for Your Next Discovery?

At Lubrizol, your ideas matter. Here, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented scientists, tackle meaningful challenges, and create solutions that improve everyday life around the world.