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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in polymer science and develop sustainable materials.
- Company: Join the National Physical Laboratory, a leader in measurement science.
- Benefits: Generous salary, flexible working, and a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with strong commitment to diversity and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global challenges like climate change and technology development.
- Qualifications: PhD in polymer chemistry with lab or industrial research experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Role
NPL is seeking an experienced Higher Scientist based in Teddington to plan and deliver a number of technical activities to advance our research. This full‑time Research Scientist role offers a generous salary and benefits package.
Responsibilities
- Sharing your learnings so that we all benefit and mentoring those with less experience than you
- Developing partnerships to strengthen our capability
- Acting as an ambassador for our work externally and being willing to promote what we do
- Providing technical support for bids we may be undertaking
About You
NPL wishes to appoint a research scientist to join its Engineering Biology multidisciplinary team developing innovative tools and reference standards to address the challenges of reproducibility, traceability, and comparability in Engineering Biology. We are looking for a chemist, biochemist or molecular biologist with prior experience in DNA synthesis and assembly, mRNA or phage displays, or cell‑free systems. In your work at NPL, you will operate, develop and maintain a state‑of‑the‑art reference biofoundry with a particular emphasis on de novo DNA. You will collect and analyse data and prepare technical reports for publications and commercial contracts, contribute to the delivery of various R&D projects in partnership with industry, and support collaborative initiatives with research organisations in the UK and abroad.
To be successful in this role, you should have a science‑related degree with relevant expertise in the field, and you should be experienced in working in a team, planning and delivering complex research projects from conception to fruition. Beyond that, we’re looking for someone who will thrive in our collaborative environment.
Diversity & Inclusion
NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, provided they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled, and black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
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Higher Scientist employer: National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
Contact Detail:
National Physical Laboratory (NPL) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Scientist
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your field! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers, make sure to showcase your expertise in polymer science and measurement techniques. Bring along examples of your work or even a portfolio if you have one. We want to see how you can contribute to our research at NPL!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview! Research NPL’s recent projects and think about how your background in sustainable materials can add value. We love candidates who are genuinely interested in what we do, so show us you’re passionate about advancing our research.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our team at NPL, so take that step and submit your application today!
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in polymer science and measurement techniques. We want to see how your skills align with the Higher Scientist role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for sustainable materials and measurement science shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about their field, so share any personal projects or research that fuel your passion!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join us at NPL!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory (NPL)
✨Know Your Polymer Science
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of polymeric materials, especially in synthesis and characterisation. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy, as these are likely to come up during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Sustainability
NPL is keen on sustainable materials, so express your enthusiasm for this area. Share any relevant projects or research you've done related to recyclable or biodegradable polymers to demonstrate your commitment to sustainability.
✨Prepare to Discuss Teamwork and Mentoring
Since the role involves sharing knowledge and mentoring, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others or guided less experienced colleagues. This will show that you can contribute positively to the team dynamic at NPL.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to your past research and how it aligns with NPL's goals. Prepare to explain your previous projects in detail, focusing on your problem-solving skills and how you can apply them to advance their research.