Full-time, fixed-term for 12 months initially, with the possibility of extension subject to funding and business needs.
About the role
Manchester Nanomaterials develops and supplies specialist materials for research and industry. We are looking for a materials scientist, physicist or engineer to lead experimental work within a funded programme developing advanced materials for thermal management.
This is predominantly a hands-on laboratory role. You will develop and process materials, prepare samples, run experiments and characterise their properties. Your results will guide improvements in performance, processing and reproducibility. Alongside this practical work, you will set research priorities and take responsibility for technical delivery.
We welcome early-career researchers and experienced scientists. Practical ability, scientific judgement and readiness to take ownership matter more than a fixed number of years’ experience.
Responsibilities
- Develop and process materials, refining formulations and methods to improve performance, consistency and reproducibility.
- Design and carry out experiments to understand how composition, structure, processing and interfaces affect material properties.
- Characterise samples, compare performance with relevant benchmarks and use reliable measurements and data analysis to guide development.
- Set research priorities, track milestones, coordinate external contributions and communicate progress, risks and next steps.
- Maintain safe laboratory practices, clear sample histories and technical records; prepare reports and support customer evaluation and intellectual-property development.
- Develop and troubleshoot experimental equipment, using basic CAD, scientific scripting and AI coding tools where useful.
- Support the relocation and setup of our existing laboratory in a dedicated industrial unit, including equipment layout, commissioning and experimental workflows.
Qualifications and experience
- A degree in physics, materials science, engineering or a related discipline. A relevant Master’s or PhD is desirable but not essential.
- Evidence of delivering experimental work independently and solving practical materials problems.
- An understanding of heat transfer and materials behaviour, with experience in materials characterisation, thermal measurements or related experimental work.
- The ability to organise technical work, interpret results critically and communicate findings clearly.
Working awareness of CAD and scientific coding, such as Python or MATLAB, would be useful, alongside an interest in using AI coding tools critically. Experience with advanced materials, thermal management, instrument automation or thermal modelling is also welcome. Deep expertise in every area is welcome but not expected.
What we offer
- A base salary commensurate with the role’s responsibilities.
- A discretionary performance bonus assessed against agreed technical and project milestones.
- 25 days’ annual leave plus UK bank holidays, with alternative bank-holiday dates available by prior agreement.
- Paid company closure between Christmas and New Year, separate from annual leave.
- Scientific autonomy and scope for progression as the technology and team develop.
Working arrangements
The role is primarily in person and laboratory-based in Manchester. We are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements that support experimental work and project delivery. The start date can accommodate notice periods and relocation; temporary part-time or hybrid arrangements may be considered.
We cannot currently provide visa sponsorship.
Selection includes an initial conversation, a technical discussion about previous work and a mini project.
Manchester Nanomaterials is an equal-opportunities employer.
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Contact Details:
Manchester Nanomaterials Ltd Recruitment Team
