Research And Development Scientist in Wakefield

An established global specialty chemicals organisation is expanding its Research & Development capability and is looking to hire an experienced R&D Scientist to support the development of advanced chemical technologies within a regional R&D function.

This role suits someone who enjoys leading technically complex projects, working hands-on in the lab, and collaborating closely with commercial, manufacturing, and customer-facing teams.

R&D Scientist

Location: Bracknell, Berkshire

Salary: Competitive + bonus

Role: Full-time, Permanent

What you’ll be doing

You’ll play a key role in delivering complex R&D programmes, often running multiple projects in parallel. Acting as a technical lead on selected projects, you’ll design experimental approaches, interpret performance data, and guide projects through to successful delivery.

Your work will span formulation, synthesis, performance testing, and detailed data interpretation, with regular interaction across functions and, where required, with customers.

Key responsibilities

• Designing and leading formulation, synthesis, and testing programmes to meet defined project objectives
• Developing test plans, milestones, and experimental strategies through to project completion
• Acting as technical or overall project lead, directing the work of other scientists where required
• Interpreting complex datasets and providing clear technical recommendations to project and R&D leadership
• Identifying risks and removing technical barriers to project success
• Carrying out advanced analytical testing and producing detailed technical reports
• Collating, interpreting, and presenting results to internal stakeholders and customers
• Supporting customer discussions by explaining results and offering technical insight
• Leading independent research projects and special technical studies
• Maintaining high standards of lab safety, COSHH compliance, and documentation
• Ensuring work aligns with ISO and internal Quality Systems
• Contributing to IP-related activities, including competitor reviews, invention disclosures, and patent support
• Representing the organisation at technical conferences, industry forums, and professional societies

What we’re looking for

• BSc, MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering
• Strong applied knowledge of chemistry and/or engineering principles in an industrial R&D environment
• Proven experience leading or significantly contributing to complex technical projects
• Confidence communicating technical information to both scientific and non-technical audiences
• Comfortable working across functions in a matrix organisation

Nice to have

• PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering
• Direct experience within a relevant chemical products
• Exposure to IP, patent activity, or technology strategy
• Experience mentoring or coaching junior scientists

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

Interested?

If this sounds like something you’d like to explore, apply with your CV or contact me lewis@cranleighstem.co.uk