Synthetic Chemist - Irresistible Materials

CRSI; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading materials science company in the United Kingdom is looking for a Synthetic Chemist to develop innovative compounds for EUV lithography. The ideal candidate will possess a Master's degree in Chemistry and hands-on lab experience in organic chemistry. Responsibilities include synthesizing novel molecules, conducting risk assessments, executing purification techniques, and maintaining thorough documentation. The position demands effective communication skills and a detail-oriented approach within a collaborative multidisciplinary environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in an organic chemistry laboratory.
• Hands-on knowledge of reactions such as condensation and SN2 substitutions.
• Proficiency in purification methods including column chromatography.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesise novel molecular resists for EUV applications.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments and ensure safety compliance.
• Prepare COSHH risk assessments and maintain accurate documentation.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Effective communication in English

Detail-oriented mindset

Education

Master’s degree in Chemistry

Tools

NMR spectroscopy

Mass spectrometry

HPLC

ChemDraw

Job description

Synthetic Chemist - Irresistible Materials

We are seeking a skilled and technically proficient Synthetic Chemist to support the development of cutting‑edge compounds for the Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography sector. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background and hands‑on experience in organic and/or polymer chemistry, a strong safety mindset, and a collaborative working style. This role involves the synthesis of novel molecules, meticulous record‑keeping, and clear communication with internal teams and external partners.

Key Responsibilities

Synthetic Chemistry

• Collaborate within a team to design and synthesise novel molecular resists for EUV applica​ons.
• Execute synthetic procedures using both in‑house protocols and innovative approaches.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks to support patent filings and internal documentation.

Safety & Compliance

• Conduct thorough risk assessments for all experimental procedures.
• Ensure strict adherence to health and safety standards, especially when handling hazardous materials.
• Foster a culture of safety and maintain a clean and compliant laboratory environment.
• Understand COSHH legislation including MSDS classifications.

Technical Expertise

• Apply core organic chemistry knowledge to design, follow, and adapt synthetic routes.
• Use purification techniques such as flash column chromatography, crystallisation, precipitation, and phase separation.
• Interpret analytical data from NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, HPLC, melting point apparatus and other commonly used techniques to confirm product identity and purity.
• Use software tools such as ChemDraw and web‑based tools such as Reaxys and Sci‑Finder for structure drawing and literature research.
• Work with cross‑functional teams to improve synthetic processes and increase efficiency.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate and detailed records of procedures, results, and deviations.
• Prepare COSHH risk assessments and regular updates for project stakeholders.
• Contribute to internal reports and technical documentation.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience working in an organic chemistry laboratory as part of a company or research institution.
• Hands‑on knowledge of reactions such as condensation, halogenation, and SN2 substitutions.
• Proficiency in purification methods including column chromatography and recrystallisation.
• Experience interpreting analytical data (NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and others).
• Familiarity with risk assessment protocols and safety documentation.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a detail‑oriented mindset.
• Effective communication skills in English; able to present complex scientific information clearly.
• Comfortable working in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple tasks and timelines.

Educational Requirements

Master’s degree (2:1 or above) in Chemistry, with a focus on organic and or polymer Chemistry.