Materials Scientist

Materials Scientist – PhD Level

Salary: £35,000–£45,000 per annum

Location : 22 Aston Road, Waterlooville, PO77XJ, UK 

Start Date: ASAP

To Apply: steve.driver@jivamaterials.com

Email Subject Line: Materials Scientist – PhD Application

About the Role

Jiva Materials is seeking a PhD-level Materials Scientist to join our mission of driving sustainability in the electronics industry. You will lead R&D projects focused on natural fibre composites, bio-resins, and functional coatings, collaborating across our R&D, production, and commercial teams.

This is a high-impact, hands-on role combining laboratory experimentation with industrial application. You will also represent Jiva at research collaborations, industry conferences, and sustainability forums worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead formulation and processing of natural fibre-based composites, resins, and coatings
• Conduct advanced materials characterisation (TGA, DSC, DMA, FTIR, SEM, mechanical testing)
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to optimise performance and cost
• Design and execute experimental programs (e.g. DoEs, ageing studies, recyclability trials)
• Prepare technical documentation and data for scale-up and investor engagement
• Contribute to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001, and IPC-compliant process development
• Support academic partnerships and external R&D collaborations
• Uphold strict safety and lab documentation standards

Requirements

Essential

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Chemistry, or related field
• Minimum of 3 years’ research experience in composites, bio-resins, or sustainable materials
• Expertise in materials characterisation and experimental design
• Strong data analysis and scientific writing skills
• Experience bridging R&D and manufacturing environments
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, mission-driven team

Desirable

• Experience with electronics materials or PCB substrates
• Familiarity with UL certification, ISO 14040/44, and IPC standards
• Published work in composites or sustainability topics
• Background in grant-funded R&D or academic–industry collaborations

Why Join Jiva?

• Contribute to transforming the electronics industry through circular innovation
• Work in a collaborative, hybrid environment with cutting-edge tools
• Represent Jiva at global tech and sustainability events
• Develop your career through clear goals, publishing opportunities, and innovation challenges
• Join a mission-driven team tackling real-world environmental challenges

To Apply

Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your materials expertise and interest in sustainability to:

steve.driver@jivamaterials.com

Use subject line: Materials Scientist – PhD Application