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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex R&D projects from concept to delivery, ensuring high-quality outputs.
- Company: Global specialty chemicals organisation with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus structure, and long-term career development.
- Why this job: Work on high-impact projects that make a real difference in the industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in Chemistry or related field; strong R&D experience required.
- Other info: Opportunities for learning, development, and building your technical reputation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A global specialty chemicals organisation is expanding its regional R&D capability and is looking to hire a Senior R&D Scientist to lead technically complex development projects across formulation, synthesis and performance testing. This role is suited to an experienced scientist who enjoys taking full technical ownership, can work confidently with limited day‐to‐day management support, and is comfortable driving progress across multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines.
Role
- Salary: Competitive + bonus
- Full‐time, Permanent
The role
You will lead projects of varying complexity from concept through to delivery, designing experimental programmes, interpreting performance data, and ensuring high‐quality technical outputs.
Key responsibilities
- Lead complex R&D projects end‐to‐end, defining approach, test plans, milestones and deliverables
- Perform and/or manage formulation, synthesis and performance testing activities aligned to business objectives
- Interpret complex datasets and provide clear recommendations to senior technical stakeholders
- Identify and remove technical hurdles, managing risk and maintaining pace under tight deadlines
- Prepare high‐quality documentation and technical reports, presenting findings to internal and external stakeholders
- Collaborate across R&D, operations, commercial and process teams in a matrix environment
- Maintain strong lab standards: safety, documentation, ISO/Quality compliance
- Contribute to innovation strategy and IP activity, including competitor reviews and invention disclosures where required
What we are looking for
- A relevant degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or similar (evidence of certification required during onboarding)
- Strong industrial R&D experience delivering complex technical projects
- Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Confident, adaptable communicator, able to influence stakeholders at different levels and functions
- Demonstrated ability to guide and motivate others without formal line management
- Highly desirable: Experience in lubricant/additive development, performance testing, or relevant specialty chemical products
- ACEA heavy‐duty engine oil formulation experience (e.g. ACEA E sequences / ACEA EO)
- PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
- Exposure to IP generation, competitor benchmarking or patent support
What’s on offer
- Competitive salary and bonus structure
- Long‐term career development within a global R&D organisation
- Exposure to high‐impact projects with real commercial application
- Opportunities to represent the business externally and build technical reputation
- Strong focus on learning, development, and innovation
If this sounds like something you would like to explore, apply with your CV or contact me at lewis@cranleighstem.co.uk
Senior Research And Development Scientist in Bracknell employer: Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research And Development Scientist in Bracknell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the R&D field on LinkedIn or at industry events. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising your storytelling skills. We want you to showcase your past projects and how you tackled challenges. Make sure to highlight your ability to work independently and manage multiple stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. We recommend checking out our website for roles that excite you, especially in R&D where you can lead complex projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. We believe it shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in the interviewer's mind.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research And Development Scientist in Bracknell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your R&D projects, especially those involving formulation and performance testing, to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about this role. Share examples of how you've led complex projects and navigated tight deadlines, as we love to see that kind of initiative!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention any relevant technical skills or certifications, especially in chemistry or chemical engineering. We want to know how you can contribute to our innovation strategy and IP activities.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the projects you've worked on. Be ready to discuss your role in detail, including the challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will show your technical ownership and problem-solving skills.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about specific methodologies related to formulation, synthesis, and performance testing. Brush up on relevant theories and practices, and be prepared to explain complex datasets and your interpretations clearly. This will demonstrate your expertise and confidence.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Senior R&D Scientist, you'll need to influence various stakeholders. Practice articulating your ideas and findings succinctly. Use examples from your past experiences where you successfully communicated complex information to non-technical audiences.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Experience
Even if you haven't had formal management roles, think of instances where you've guided or motivated team members. Be ready to share these stories, as they will illustrate your ability to drive progress and manage risks effectively in a collaborative environment.
