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- Tasks: Join our team as a Field Scientist, supporting R&D and product development in detection technology.
- Company: Smiths Detection is a global leader in safety technology, safeguarding people and infrastructure worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for travel, collaboration, and working with cutting-edge technology in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to make the world safer while developing innovative solutions with experts.
- Qualifications: PhD in Chemistry or Physics preferred; hands-on lab experience and strong data analysis skills required.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract based at our Hemel Hempstead R&D site.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Smiths Detection is making the world a safer place. We safeguard people, business and infrastructure with the latest innovations and screening technology for aviation, ports, borders, defense, and security across 55 countries around the globe.
We have an exciting opportunity here at Smiths Detection for a Field Scientist to join our Technology Projects team on a 12 Month Fixed term contract basis. Working from our Hemel Hempstead R&D site, it will also include regular visits to other 3rd party laboratories. This is a fantastic opportunity to join an expanding team where you will play an integral part in providing scientific expertise and support, covering technology and product development and support for current/future chemical, explosives, and narcotics detection products. You will also be instrumental in planning and executing experiments, analyzing data, and designing instruments/experiments.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Support scientific aspects of R&D and product development, including prolonged campaigns at third-party facilities.
- Provide scientific input to the design, build, and testing of experimental equipment.
- Plan and conduct original research for performance enhancement.
- Critically appraise experimental data and theory, providing guidance based on data interpretation.
- Identify gaps and propose additional work.
- Contribute to project planning and review activities.
- Support scientific aspects of products throughout their lifecycle.
- Manage own time and work with a high degree of autonomy.
- May lead work of a technician.
- Provide support to off-site trials and tests.
- Work in accordance with local policies and procedures.
- Provide technical advice to authorities, managers, and during proposal, design, testing, and production stages.
- Assist in bid preparation.
The Individual:
- PhD in Chemistry or Physics highly desirable.
- Documented hands-on laboratory experience essential.
- Knowledge of analytical instrument design and operation; Ion mobility spectrometry desirable but not necessary.
- Demonstrated experimental and data analysis skills.
- Innovative ideas for original research.
- Excellent communication skills; effective interaction with colleagues at all levels.
- Motivated, self-starting, capable of driving project success.
- Ability to carry out projects of reasonable scope.
- Suggests solutions and contributes to technical problem-solving.
- Basic knowledge of related disciplines.
- Application of technical standards, principles, and techniques.
- Provides solutions to technical problems of moderate scope and complexity.
- Plans, progresses, and delivers work based on instructions.
- Works independently, makes recommendations, recognizes when to escalate.
- Well organized, adaptable, able to prioritize tasks, effective team player.
- Assesses feasibility of goals/objectives.
- Follows procedures, suggests solutions for development.
Field Scientist - FTC employer: Smiths Detection
Contact Detail:
Smiths Detection Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Field Scientist - FTC
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Smiths Detection's technology and recent projects. Understanding their innovations in threat detection will not only help you during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on laboratory experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of experiments you've conducted, particularly those related to chemistry or physics, as this will demonstrate your practical skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your problem-solving abilities by thinking of examples where you've identified gaps in research or proposed innovative solutions. This aligns well with the responsibilities of the Field Scientist role and will highlight your proactive approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Field Scientist - FTC
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Field Scientist position at Smiths Detection. Familiarise yourself with their technology and the specific scientific expertise they are looking for.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in chemistry or physics, particularly any hands-on laboratory work. Emphasise your skills in experimental design, data analysis, and any innovative research projects you've undertaken.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for scientific research and your motivation to contribute to Smiths Detection's mission. Mention specific examples of how your background aligns with the job description and how you can add value to their team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a scientific role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smiths Detection
✨Showcase Your Scientific Expertise
Make sure to highlight your PhD in Chemistry or Physics and any hands-on laboratory experience you have. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied your knowledge, especially in analytical instrument design or data analysis.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Smiths Detection values innovative ideas and solutions. Prepare examples of how you've tackled technical problems in the past, particularly those that required critical thinking and creativity in experimental design.
✨Communicate Effectively
Excellent communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be ready to explain complex scientific concepts in a way that is accessible to colleagues at all levels.
✨Prepare for Autonomy and Teamwork
This position requires a balance of working independently and collaborating with others. Think of instances where you've successfully managed your own projects while also contributing to team efforts, and be ready to discuss these experiences.
