R&D Principal Scientist in Loughborough

R&D Principal Scientist in Loughborough

Loughborough Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Saint Gobain

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead innovative R&D projects in gypsum systems and fire performance solutions.
  • Company: Join Saint-Gobain, a global leader in sustainable construction.
  • Benefits: Collaborative environment, career growth, and flexible working options.
  • Other info: Diverse workplace that values unique perspectives and innovation.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable building solutions and improve everyday life.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Engineering with R&D experience.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

At Saint-Gobain we are looking for an R&D Principal Scientist to join our Central R&D Innovation R&D centre in East Leake, helping to deliver innovative gypsum-based systems and fire performance solutions for global construction markets. This role will play a key part in supporting strategic innovation projects focused on gypsum systems, compliance, formulation development and system design. Working across international project teams, you'll combine hands-on laboratory expertise with technical leadership to solve complex customer and business challenges. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge fire testing, material innovation and product performance development within a highly collaborative global R&D environment.

Saint-Gobain is a worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, designing, manufacturing and distributing materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Our innovation teams are focused on delivering high-performance, sustainable solutions that improve everyday life and create better living spaces around the world. This role is based on-site in East Leake, 5 days per week, with approximately 20% travel.

What we're looking for:

  • Degree qualified in Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering or a related scientific discipline.
  • Strong industrial R&D experience within laboratory and testing environments, ideally linked to gypsum products or construction materials.
  • Experience in fire testing, passive fire protection or fire stopping systems, including knowledge of relevant certifications and standards.
  • Proven ability to lead technical projects, communicate findings and collaborate with international stakeholders and cross-functional teams.
  • Hands-on experimental mindset with experience developing testing methods, analysing material performance and driving innovation.

What you will be doing:

  • Lead and support R&D innovation projects focused on gypsum systems, compliance and formulation development.
  • Conduct laboratory-based testing and material investigations, developing new methods and technical solutions to complex challenges.
  • Work closely with project teams, customers and global stakeholders to communicate findings, present results and share technical knowledge.
  • Support fire performance and passive fire protection developments through testing, analysis and system design activities.
  • Drive innovation initiatives that improve product performance, system capability and customer value across international markets.

Saint-Gobain is a worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, following our purpose of 'Making the World a Better Home'. We play a part in improving daily life through high-performance solutions. We understand that a diverse workplace is not only a more enjoyable place to be, but also facilitates better decision making and innovation. So, whoever you are, and whichever Saint-Gobain business you join, you can be sure of a warm welcome with us.

At Saint-Gobain, we're always open to new ways of working. Everyone has different needs and commitments. We'll happily discuss any need you might have for this role. If you match our criteria, we will be in touch to discuss your experience and more about you as a person - we look forward to hearing from you.

R&D Principal Scientist in Loughborough employer: Saint Gobain

At Saint-Gobain, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our R&D Principal Scientist role in East Leake provides unique opportunities for professional growth, hands-on laboratory experience, and the chance to contribute to sustainable construction solutions that make a real difference in people's lives. With a commitment to flexibility and diversity, we ensure that every employee feels valued and empowered to drive meaningful change in the industry.
Saint Gobain

Contact Detail:

Saint Gobain Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land R&D Principal Scientist in Loughborough

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that R&D Principal Scientist role.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and being ready to discuss your hands-on experience. We recommend practising common interview questions related to gypsum systems and fire performance solutions so you can showcase your expertise confidently.

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It shows initiative and keeps you fresh in their minds, which is always a good thing.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the time to engage directly with us. So, don’t hesitate – get your application in and let’s make some innovative strides together!

We think you need these skills to ace R&D Principal Scientist in Loughborough

Materials Science
Chemistry
Engineering
Industrial R&D Experience
Laboratory Testing
Fire Testing
Passive Fire Protection
Formulation Development
Technical Project Leadership
Communication Skills
Collaboration with International Stakeholders
Experimental Mindset
Testing Method Development
Material Performance Analysis
Innovation Initiatives

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in R&D, especially with gypsum products or construction materials. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects and achievements!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about innovation in construction and how your skills can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love getting to know the real you!

Showcase Your Technical Skills: In your application, highlight any hands-on laboratory expertise and experience with fire testing or material performance analysis. We’re looking for someone who can lead technical projects, so make sure to mention any relevant certifications or standards you’re familiar with.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at Saint-Gobain!

How to prepare for a job interview at Saint Gobain

✨Know Your Gypsum Inside Out

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of gypsum products and their applications. Understand the latest innovations in fire performance solutions and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these developments.

✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience

Prepare to share specific examples from your past roles where you've led R&D projects or conducted laboratory testing. Highlight any innovative methods you've developed and how they contributed to solving complex challenges.

✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently

Since this role involves collaboration with international teams, practice articulating your findings and technical knowledge clearly. Use straightforward language to explain complex concepts, ensuring everyone can follow along.

✨Emphasise Your Collaborative Spirit

Saint-Gobain values teamwork, so be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked with cross-functional teams in the past. Share examples of how you’ve communicated effectively with stakeholders to drive projects forward.

R&D Principal Scientist in Loughborough
Saint Gobain
Location: Loughborough

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