At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research in chemical and explosives detection technologies.
- Company: Join Smiths Detection, a global leader in security technology.
- Benefits: Career growth, training, flexible benefits, and a focus on wellbeing.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with diverse perspectives and opportunities for collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and security with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: PhD in Chemistry, Physics or related field; strong research and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection’s threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place. Smiths Detection is a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.
As a Senior Scientist within our Innovation Team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of chemical, explosives and narcotics detection technologies. Unlike traditional product support roles, this position focuses on early-stage research, technology assessment, prototype evaluation and scientific innovation. You'll help determine which technologies have the potential to become the next generation of Smiths Detection products, working at the intersection of science, engineering and security.
This is an opportunity for a technically strong scientist with leadership capability, commercial awareness and scientific curiosity to influence future technology direction and work on some of the most challenging detection problems in the industry.
As a Senior Scientist, you will lead scientific investigations and innovation activities from concept through to technical proof of principle. Key responsibilities include:
- Leading scientific work packages and research activities within the Innovation portfolio
- Designing and executing experiments to answer complex technical questions
- Developing and evaluating novel detection technologies and concepts
- Assessing the viability, performance and potential application of emerging technologies
- Supporting prototype development and technology demonstrators
- Leading root-cause investigations and scientific problem solving activities
- Analysing, modelling and interpreting complex datasets
- Producing high-quality technical reports, presentations and recommendations
- Presenting findings and influencing decision-making with technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Engaging with external collaborators including research organisations, universities, government bodies and technology partners
- Supporting technology transfer activities as innovation projects mature into product development programmes
- Representing Smiths Detection at scientific conferences, customer engagements and industry events
We're seeking an experienced scientist who combines strong technical expertise with leadership potential, commercial awareness and the ability to operate with a high degree of autonomy.
Experience leading scientific investigations or research activities, strong experimental design and problem-solving skills, experience developing, modifying, troubleshooting or evaluating scientific instrumentation, advanced data analysis and interpretation capability, experience delivering technical recommendations to senior stakeholders, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to work independently from high-level objectives and define the scientific approach required are essential.
We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
- Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS)
- Mass Spectrometry
- Raman Spectroscopy
- X-ray technologies
- Analytical chemistry instrumentation
- Instrument development and integration
- Detection technologies
- Scientific research and development environments
- Defence, security, forensics or detection markets
- Prototype development and proof-of-concept activities
- New product development and innovation programmes
The successful candidate will be more than an experienced laboratory scientist. They will be someone who can:
- Take a broad technical challenge and define the right scientific path forward
- Quickly understand unfamiliar technologies and evaluate their potential
- Lead and influence technical activities without requiring close supervision
- Communicate complex scientific concepts to a range of audiences
- Act as a trusted representative of Smiths Detection with customers, partners and collaborators
- Balance hands-on laboratory work with strategic scientific thinking
Please note: Due to the nature of the work, applicants must be eligible to obtain and maintain Security Clearance (SC) and meet UK FiveEyes security requirements.
A PhD in Chemistry, Physics or a related scientific discipline is required.
Join us and we’ll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You’ll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You’ll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial and lifestyle perspective.
We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.
Senior Scientist in Hemel Hempstead employer: Smiths Group
At Smiths Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture in Slough. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and a focus on innovation, allowing you to make a meaningful impact in the supply chain sector. Join us to be part of a team where your analytical skills will not only be valued but also drive significant improvements in our operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Scientist in Hemel Hempstead
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Smiths Group, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Smiths Group. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Scientist in Hemel Hempstead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Smiths Group. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Smiths Group. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smiths Group
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Smiths Group. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Smiths Group to drive research projects forward.
