Formulation Scientists and Coloration Scientists

Keracol is looking to recruit enthusiastic, detail-oriented scientists, with experience in cosmetic formulation, colour chemistry and/or organic chemistry to join us as we actively grow our R&D team. The successful candidates will play an important role in the R&D laboratory working towards the development of new technology, new ingredients, novel formulations, and novel applications of Keracol’s portfolio of hair care, skin care, hair coloration, and other colorants products for commercial applications. These roles will cover a wide variety of projects, ranging from small-scale laboratory work to commercial production. These are permanent positions with 3-months’ probation.

Keracol is a spin-out company from The University of Leeds. Our core value is sustainability with performance. We combine high-end physical science with innovative applications to produce natural and sustainable hair dyes, colour cosmetics, hair care, skin care and sun care products. Our expertise spans organic chemistry, colour chemistry, polymer chemistry, extraction technology, effect assessment, coloration technology, and natural products chemistry. Keracol develops novel approaches to the extraction of active molecules from plant sources, and fractionating and purifying them for multiple applications, both existing and novel. We use renewable materials and waste materials as sources of extracts and are able to produce extracts from raw materials that do not compete with land for food crops. Our extracts are formulated in consumer beauty products providing solutions to unmet needs, as there is a huge consumer demand for products containing natural and renewable ingredients. We work with multinational partners on research projects and products for Keracol’s own products.

Keracol is a growing business and as we expand, we will reward the loyalty of employees with excellent opportunities within the company. The position is offered with an attractive salary, a company shares scheme, and a comfortable work environment. Keracol’s laboratory and office are located in Nexus, a £40m state-of-the-art building located on The University of Leeds campus. Salary will be £30,000 to £40,000 dependent on qualifications and experience.

Closing date 31/05/2025, but early applications are strongly encouraged. Applications should include a full CV and covering letter explaining how you meet the person specification. Keracol is unable to sponsor any existing or new visa applications. This position is only open to British and Irish citizens, along with individuals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or those who have the right to work in the UK without needing a visa.

Desirable Qualifications, Skills and Experience

• At least Masters-level degree in an appropriate science-based degree.
• Research experience in a commercial R&D laboratory setting.
• Clear understanding of laboratory safety procedures, e.g. COSHH and risk assessments.
• Creative problem solver.
• Solid teamwork, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to meet deadlines.
• A self-starter, who is able to work on projects individually.
• Potential to be innovative and generate and deliver on new ideas.
• Proven ability to communicate results of research effectively, through oral and written media to a high standard.
• Experience of working in a commercial/industrial environment.
• Experience of formulating skin care and/or hair care products.
• Experience in colour cosmetic formulation and product design.
• Experience of working with CIE Lab Colour Space and Kubelka-Munk theory.
• Experience in the use of analytical techniques, including HPLC, LC-MS, NMR, UV-Vis, FT-IR, MS.
• Experience in organic chemistry, including natural products, dyes and pigments.
• Experience in working with natural colorants.
• Experience in hair dyes and dyeing processes.
• Experience in the design and development of novel cosmetic bases.
• Experience in natural product extraction, purification, separation and characterisation technologies.
• Experience of working in the Personal/Consumer Care sectors.
• Business knowledge and acumen within a relevant industry.
• Knowledge of sustainability and green chemistry principles.