Associate Scientist, Formulated Solutions in Ascot

About Us

Elementis is a global specialty chemical company, with 1,300 employees operating 17 manufacturing sites across the globe. At Elementis, we bring a distinctive combination of expertise, innovation, and teamwork to every formulation challenge. We create high-value specialty additives that enhance the performance of our customers' products and make a positive change in the world. Combining our leading positions in the science of materials flow, surface modification, and formulation with access to unique natural materials, Elementis delivers unique chemistry, sustainable solutions to customers in a wide range of markets, including cosmetics, anti-perspirants, decorative and industrial coatings, automotive and ceramics.

Job Description Summary

The Associate Scientist, Formulated Solutions is responsible for laboratory related tasks, assisting the Senior Scientist and Scientist to evaluate and translate formulated product concepts into robust, customer-relevant solutions. The role involves hands-on formulation development, prototype preparation, initial application testing, stability assessment and technical data generation to support new product development from early concept through launch readiness. Working closely with the Innovation Delivery Team, the role assists formulation development and blending, investigates raw materials and processing approaches. Accurate record keeping and data presentation is a key part of this job.

Job Description

• Assist formulated product development projects from concept definition through prototype development, performance testing, stability evaluation and technical readiness for launch.
• Execute experimental work on the bench, using structured and creative formulation approaches to develop differentiated product concepts, application claims and customer-relevant benefits.
• Research raw materials, formulation technologies, market trends and unmet customer needs to identify opportunities for new products, product improvements and portfolio refreshes.
• Maintain accurate, timely and complete records of experiments, results, learnings, failures and decisions to support project governance, knowledge capture and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with Quality and Regulatory colleagues to ensure that formulation work, testing protocols, raw material choices and product claims are aligned with applicable standards, safety expectations and customer requirements.

Job Competencies

• Attention to detail, the ability to record information in a clear and logical way, according to Elementis protocol.
• Communicates effectively and confidently: Communicates technical information clearly to superiors and the Regulatory Department. Shares ideas, feedback and concerns openly, makes recommendations with confidence and knows when to seek advice or further expert input.
• Cultivates a deep technical curiosity in the personal care industry, with the ability to generate new product ideas, improve existing products and identify differentiated technical opportunities. Has a learning mindset and ability to assimilate new information.
• Manages work effectively according to deadlines and urgency. Plans work carefully, keeps projects moving and maintains high standards even when handling several tasks in parallel.
• Collaborates and takes ownership: Takes a can-do approach builds strong working relationships across teams, contributes constructively, provides feedback when needed and helps create a collaborative, solutions-focused environment.
• Has a customer focus and commercial awareness.

Decision making

Typically, you have the authority to make day-to-day decisions related to tasks that need to be completed, within agreed project scope. Higher-level approval is required for any change relating to day-to-day tasks or agreed project deadlines or methodology.

Additional Job Description

• Some knowledge of formulated product development is advantageous, including application testing and stability assessment.
• Some understanding of the product development lifecycle from concept creation and prototype development through technical validation, documentation and launch support.
• Basic knowledge of relevant quality, regulatory, safety and documentation requirements for laboratory-based product development.
• A capability in technical data analysis, scientific reporting, presentation creation and communication of formulation performance to technical and commercial audiences.

Position Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in chemistry, formulation science, materials science, chemical engineering, life sciences or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience: No previous experience is necessary, however work experience in specialty chemicals, ingredients, personal care, or related formulation-based industry is an advantage.
• IT Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
• Language Skills: Verbal and written fluency in English.
• Working arrangements: Lab-based role.
• Traveling required: Trade shows and internal as required.
• Right to Work: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application and throughout their employment. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.