At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on experiments in polymer synthesis and materials characterisation.
- Company: Join a fast-paced materials innovation startup in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, practical experience, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Great opportunity for early career chemists to thrive in a startup culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in R&D while developing your chemistry skills.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related field; practical lab experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 32000 £ per year.
Company Description
STEM Recruiters UK is a specialist recruitment agency supporting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics organisations across the UK. We work with innovative companies, research teams, and high growth startups to connect technically capable professionals with roles where they can make a direct impact. We are currently supporting a lean, fast moving materials innovation startup in the London area. The company operates in a highly focused R&D environment, with a strong emphasis on efficient laboratory work, high quality data, clear results, and rapid technical progress. This is a hands on role for someone who enjoys working with pace, ownership, and scientific curiosity. The team works with international clients and technical partners, so clear English communication, accurate reporting, and the ability to present data confidently are essential.
Role Description
We are seeking a Junior Laboratory Chemist for a full time, on site, 6 month role based in the London Area, United Kingdom. The successful candidate will support polymer and materials research, including polymer synthesis, formulation, sample preparation, chemical analysis, instrument operation, data recording, and technical reporting. This role is well suited to someone who is active, practical, efficient, and comfortable in a startup environment where priorities move quickly. We are looking for a chemist who can follow good laboratory practice while also thinking critically, asking the right questions, and contributing ideas that help expand and strengthen the research.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting laboratory experiments related to polymer synthesis, formulation, and materials characterisation
- Preparing, handling, and analysing polymer, chemical, and material samples
- Supporting experimental design, optimisation, and troubleshooting
- Operating and supporting routine use of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments
- Working with techniques such as FTIR, NMR, GPC, SEM, TEM, DSC, TGA, UV Vis, and general wet chemistry methods
- Maintaining accurate experimental records, lab notebooks, and technical documentation
- Producing clear summaries of results, observations, and data for internal and client facing review
- Supporting quality control, calibration, and good laboratory practice
- Working efficiently to generate reliable data that supports technical and commercial objectives
- Communicating clearly with colleagues, technical partners, and international stakeholders
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
- Practical experience in polymer synthesis, materials chemistry, formulation, or chemical analysis
- Familiarity with analytical and characterisation techniques such as FTIR, NMR, GPC, SEM, TEM, DSC, TGA, UV Vis, or related methods
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high quality data
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast paced, results focused laboratory environment
- Good problem solving skills and a practical, hands on approach to experimental work
- Strong written and verbal English communication skills
- Ability to present technical findings clearly through reports, data summaries, and verbal updates
- A proactive, can do attitude with the confidence to think beyond routine procedures
- Industry, internship, placement, or applied research experience is highly desirable
- Strong awareness of laboratory safety, chemical handling, and good laboratory practice
Role Details
- Location: London Area, United Kingdom
- Working pattern: Full time, on site
- Salary: 28-32k/year depending on experience
- Contract length: 6 months
- Seniority: Junior / early career
- Function: Laboratory, R&D, polymer chemistry, materials science
This opportunity would suit an early career chemist who wants to work in a demanding but rewarding startup environment, contribute directly to live R&D projects, and build practical experience in polymer and materials innovation.
Junior Polymer Chemist, On-site R&D Lab (London) employer: STEM Recruiters UK
STEM Recruiters UK is an exceptional employer for aspiring Junior Polymer Chemists, offering a dynamic and innovative startup environment in London. With a strong focus on hands-on research and development, employees benefit from a culture that encourages scientific curiosity, efficient laboratory practices, and clear communication. The company provides ample opportunities for professional growth, allowing team members to contribute directly to impactful projects while honing their skills in polymer and materials science.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Polymer Chemist, On-site R&D Lab (London)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the polymer chemistry field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising your technical skills and communication. Since this role requires clear reporting and data presentation, try explaining your past projects or experiments to friends or family. This will help you articulate your experience confidently during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on experience! When discussing your background, highlight any practical work you've done in labs, especially with techniques like FTIR or NMR. Employers love to see that you can hit the ground running in a fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. So, get clicking and let’s land that job together!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Polymer Chemist, On-site R&D Lab (London)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Junior Polymer Chemist role. Highlight relevant experience in polymer synthesis and materials chemistry, and don’t forget to mention any hands-on lab work you've done. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for polymer chemistry and your eagerness to work in a fast-paced startup environment. Share specific examples of your problem-solving skills and how you’ve contributed to past projects.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since clear communication is key in this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use concise language and structure your documents well. We want to see that you can present data confidently and clearly, just like you would in the lab!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive, which is exactly the kind of attitude we love!
How to prepare for a job interview at STEM Recruiters UK
✨Know Your Chemistry
Brush up on your knowledge of polymer chemistry and the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like FTIR and NMR. Be ready to discuss how you've used these methods in past projects or studies.
✨Show Your Hands-On Experience
Prepare examples from your previous lab work that highlight your practical skills and problem-solving abilities. Talk about specific experiments you've conducted and the results you achieved, showcasing your efficiency and attention to detail.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since clear communication is key, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present data or findings, so think about how you can summarise your work effectively for both technical and non-technical audiences.
✨Embrace the Startup Mindset
Demonstrate your adaptability and proactive attitude. Share instances where you've thrived in fast-paced environments or contributed innovative ideas. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the dynamic culture of a startup.
