Senior Scientist - Autonomous Molecular Innovation in Leeds

Company Overview

Are you ready to help redefine the future of chemistry? At Coretech Sciences, we are reinventing how chemical process development is done: where automation, advanced analytics, and AI‑driven optimisation come together as a closed‑loop system to dramatically accelerate process innovation. Our mission is to transform how chemical and pharmaceutical processes are discovered, optimised, and scaled, enabling faster timelines, higher quality, and more sustainable chemical manufacturing.

If you are excited by complex problems, comfortable working in an evolving environment, and motivated by the chance to build something genuinely new, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled chemist with expertise in organic synthesis, flow chemistry, and automation to contribute to advanced process development. This role involves designing and executing experiments, optimising synthetic routes, and leveraging automation tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply knowledge of organic chemistry in batch and flow systems to plan and execute experimental programmes within agreed objectives;
• Evaluate and prioritise synthetic routes, troubleshoot challenges, and adapt plans as needed;
• Utilise flow chemistry and automation techniques to optimise processes and support innovation;
• Develop proficiency in the Coretech automation and optimisation platform;
• Maintain accurate records in compliance with SOPs, safety standards, COSHH legislation, and risk assessments;
• Communicate progress through regular updates, review meetings, and written reports;
• Gain familiarity with data‑driven approaches, including machine learning, for process optimisation;
• Support training and knowledge sharing on Coretech automated chemistry systems;
• Contribute to scientific documentation, including reports, papers, and patents;
• Collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners.

Essential Experience

• PhD in process chemistry, synthetic organic chemistry, or equivalent;
• Proven track record in process chemistry, organic synthesis, and flow synthesis/continuous processing;
• Experience with chemistry automation hardware and techniques;
• Strong analytical skills in HPLC, MS, and NMR;
• Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills;
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic environment with changing priorities;
• Some familiarity with scripting (Python or similar) and interest in algorithmic approaches;
• Strong organisational skills and commitment to continuous improvement.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in high‑throughput experimentation (HTE);
• Practical experience applying machine learning algorithms for reaction optimisation;
• Experience working in collaborative environments and contributing to funding proposals.

We recognise that job descriptions can sometimes feel like a checklist, and research shows that candidates, particularly women, may choose not to apply unless they meet every requirement. We want to be clear: if you believe you have the skills and experience to succeed in this role, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet every single criterion listed. Your potential matters to us.

Who We Are

Coretech is a high‑growth spinout from the University of Leeds, founded on more than a decade of world‑leading research in flow chemistry, inline analytics, and AI‑enabled process optimisation. Our domain‑specific AI integrates automated experimental systems with intelligent optimisation, compressing development cycles from months to days and enabling reproducible, data‑rich process understanding.

This is a rare opportunity to join a fast‑growing company at a formative moment, where deep science, real‑world impact, and product innovation come together.

Why Join Us

At Coretech, you won’t just run experiments, you’ll help shape how chemistry is done.

We offer:

• Meaningful scientific ownership: working at the intersection of chemistry, automation, data, and product development, with real influence on platform direction;
• Exposure to leading industry partners: collaborate with globally recognised pharmaceutical and chemical organisations;
• A culture of curiosity and rigour: we value high scientific standards, thoughtful experimentation, and learning from failure;
• A collaborative, human team: we celebrate progress, support one another, and recognise initiative, integrity, and purpose;
• Growth beyond your lane: opportunities to expand your skills beyond your areas of expertise, as the company grows.

Applications should be submitted by email, including a CV and cover letter.

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Industries: Chemical Manufacturing