Chemist in York

My client is the UK’s national innovation centre for metals and is a globally recognised centre for the innovation, development, and commercialisation of technology for advanced materials, industrial decarbonisation, digital technologies, and the circular economy. These innovations are delivered by scientists, engineers, and project teams with expertise in materials science and advanced processing, utilising state-of-the-art equipment, laboratories, workshops, demonstration, scale-up and production facilities to develop technology, enhance materials and improve processes. The Institute is a not-for-profit organisation, with an 80 year track record and a strong societal and ethical mission.

Purpose of the Role

The Chemist will contribute to the delivery and development of applied research, innovation and commercial projects across the Institute’s laboratories and pilot-scale facilities. The role is intentionally broad and flexible, supporting a range of chemistry-led activities aligned to the Institute’s strategic priorities and industrial collaborations. This position is suited to an individual with practical chemistry experience who enjoys working in applied, problem-solving environments and collaborating across disciplines. The role will evolve over time in line with project needs, funding opportunities and the individual’s strengths.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake laboratory-based experimental work in support of applied research, innovation and commercial projects.
• Contribute to the design, execution and interpretation of experimental programmes.
• Record, analyse and report experimental data clearly and accurately.
• Support the development, operation and improvement of laboratory and pilot-scale chemistry facilities.
• Work collaboratively with engineers, scientists, technologists and project teams across the Institute.
• Engage with industrial partners and project stakeholders as required.
• Support preparation of technical inputs to proposals, reports and presentations.
• Maintain high standards of health, safety and environmental compliance, including risk assessments and COSHH.
• Be flexible and willing to support hands-on experimental, pilot-scale or site-based activities when required.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of laboratory practices, methods and capabilities.

Person Specification

Experience, Skills and Qualifications

• A degree or equivalent experience in chemistry, materials chemistry or a related discipline.
• Practical experience in laboratory-based chemical work within industrial, research or academic settings.
• Experience of applied or experimental chemistry, process development or materials-related work.
• Familiarity with chemical characterisation, analytical or processing techniques relevant to applied research.
• Experience of working safely in laboratory or industrial environments, including use of risk assessments.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.

Additional Desirable Experience

• Experience working at the interface between research and industry.
• Exposure to pilot-scale, demonstration-scale or process development activities.
• Involvement in research proposals, technical reporting or project delivery.
• Understanding of sustainability, circular economy or industrial decarbonisation challenges.
• A knowledge of battery chemistry or experience with critical materials recovery.
• Membership of, or interest in joining, a relevant professional body (e.g. RSC, IChemE, IOM3).

Values and Behaviours

Candidates are expected to demonstrate behaviours aligned with our values, including:

• Acting with integrity, professionalism and accountability.
• Working collaboratively and inclusively with colleagues and partners.
• Demonstrating curiosity, adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning.
• Supporting innovation, improvement and sustainable outcomes.
• Taking responsibility for health, safety and environmental stewardship.

What We Offer

• A varied and evolving role in a nationally significant research and innovation organisation.
• Opportunities to work on impactful, real-world projects with industrial partners.
• Access to specialist facilities, laboratories and pilot-scale equipment.
• A supportive and collaborative working environment.
• A competitive remuneration and benefits package, dependent on experience.