Senior Scientist - Synthetic Chemist, hireful

Guardian Jobs; West of England; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work terms

Startup environment

Job summary

Guardian Jobs is seeking a PhD-level chemist in Bristol to lead laboratory work and scale-up synthesis of assay components. The role requires independent work, adaptability and a focus on quality systems.

The successful candidate will design experiments, analyse data, and contribute to blue-sky research projects in a fast-moving startup environment.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate qualification in synthetic chemistry or an MSc with 3+ years' experience.
• Hands-on lab experience with purification and analysis of small molecules.
• Ability to troubleshoot experimental issues and interpret data.
• Interest in applying new techniques and working in a collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct laboratory experiments under QMS/GLP.
• Scale-up synthesis and purification of small molecules.
• Analyze data and maintain electronic records (MBook).
• Operate spectrometers and purification equipment, contributing to new projects.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Data interpretation

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Education

PhD in Synthetic Chemistry

Masters with 3+ years experience

Tools

MNova

Job description

Location

Bristol, UK (On-site full time)

Position

Full Time (37.5 hours/week)

Date

Closing date for application is 28th September 2026 unless the role is filled earlier.

Salary

£34,000-39,000

Expected start date

ASAP

Company Profile

Our client is a Bristol-based chemistry company specialising in the design and synthesis of highly selective binding molecules for use in cutting-edge sensors across hospitals, medical devices, bioprocessing, and industrial applications.

About The Role

In the last 12 months, our client has developed and optimised an assay for the quantitation of glucose and other select analytes in complex media such as interstitial fluid, whole blood and industrial cell culture fermentations. As we move further down the path towards a commercial device, one challenge that we face is the large-scale synthesis of the assay components. The successful candidate will be using their synthetic chemical, analytical and problem-solving skills to interrogate and, where necessary, modify the current synthetic routes to improve the yield and amenability to larger scale synthesis. The candidate will also be involved in the numerous blue-sky research projects in progress. To thrive in this role, the candidate must be able to work independently, be adaptable to new ideas and change, be resourceful and self-motivated. Our client is a young, growing company and will offer the successful candidate an interesting and enjoyable work environment with a highly motivated team of scientists plus an opportunity to grow and develop scientific skills and experience.

Qualifications

• A PhD in Synthetic Chemistry or Masters with an additional 3+ years experience is required.

Job Description

• Designing and conducting laboratory experiments in a safe and efficient manner, often working under a Quality Management System (QMS) or Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
• Optimisation of the synthesis and purification of small molecules on large scale.
• Analysing experimental data using the relevant software (e.g. MNova) and maintain an electronic record of experiments (MBook).
• Instrumentation such as spectrometers (NMR, UV Vis, fluorescence), purification (Biotage, LCMS, HPLC, size exclusion, GPC), as well as biophysical techniques such as ITC, BLI etc.
• Contributing to scientific discussions and offering suggestions to push forward new projects.

What They're Looking For

• Qualification at postgraduate level (PhD, or Masters with an additional 3+ years experience) in Synthetic Chemistry.
• Extensive hands‑on experience in laboratory settings and knowledge of purification and analysis methods for molecules of varying molecular weight and polarity.
• Aptitude for troubleshooting experimental issues, root cause analysis, interpreting data, and designing alternative approaches to achieve research objectives.
• Eagerness to stay informed about new techniques, technologies, and advancements in the field of chemistry, and the ability to quickly incorporate them into practical work.
• Collaborative attitude and someone who works well within a highly skilled team.

Why Join?

• Gain valuable hands‑on experience in practical chemistry and biochemistry with real application.
• Work in a fast‑paced startup environment where your work directly contributes to the company's objectives.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking new research that is directly relevant to healthcare.
• Competitive salary, workplace benefits and flexible work terms.

Eligibility and Expectations

To qualify for this position, you will need to be authorised to live and work in the UK.

You must have respect for others and a commitment and enthusiasm for high standards and continuous improvement.

Our client values diversity. They are an equal opportunities employer and welcome employees who meet the requirements of the job, regardless of gender, ethnic origin, disability, age, religion or sexual orientation.