At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on experiments in polymer synthesis and materials research.
- Company: Join a fast-paced materials innovation startup in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential for full-time role, and valuable R&D experience.
- Other info: Ideal for proactive individuals eager to thrive in a startup culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic lab environment while developing your chemistry skills.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related field; practical lab experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 32000 £ per year.
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.
We are seeking a Junior Laboratory Chemist for a full time 100% on site 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: 1 year contract, with potential to go full time after review
- 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.
Laboratory Chemist in Slough employer: STEM Recruiters UK
STEM Recruiters UK is an exceptional employer for aspiring Laboratory Chemists, offering a dynamic startup environment in the heart of London. With a strong focus on innovation and hands-on research, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that encourages scientific curiosity and critical thinking. The company provides ample opportunities for professional growth, allowing team members to contribute directly to impactful R&D projects while developing their skills in polymer and materials science.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Chemist in Slough
✨Get Involved in the Chemistry Community
Engage with local chemistry societies and attend their events. Whether it's a conference or a seminar, these gatherings can be gold mines for networking and spotting job openings at companies like STEM Recruiters UK. Plus, being face-to-face with industry professionals can leave a lasting impression!
✨Utilise Online Platforms for Chemistry Jobs
Don’t just rely on mainstream job boards. Sites like Chemistry World and Chemjobs are specifically geared for our field. Set up alerts for new openings at places like STEM Recruiters UK to be the first to apply!
✨Showcase Your Research & Projects
Create a professional online portfolio that highlights your chemistry projects or research. This could be a blog or a simple website that showcases your skills and experience. When you apply to STEM Recruiters UK, you want them to see what you can do beyond the CV.
✨Connect With Recruiters Specialised in Chemistry
Reach out to recruitment agencies that focus on the chemistry sector. They often have inside tracks on job openings at companies like STEM Recruiters UK and can provide valuable advice tailored to full-time roles in our industry. Don't be shy to ask for insights!
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Chemist in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:When applying for a chemistry position, make sure to highlight any lab experience you've got. Mention specific techniques and instruments you've worked with, as they can set you apart from other candidates. For us, demonstrating your practical skills is as important as your theoretical knowledge!
Tailor Your CV to Chemistry:It's essential to structure your CV in a way that’s appealing for a chemistry role. Highlight relevant projects, research publications, and coursework that demonstrate your expertise. If you’ve completed specific certifications, make sure to list those as well—they can really boost your chances!
Craft a Chemistry-Focused Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your enthusiasm for the field of chemistry and why you want to work at STEM Recruiters UK. Talk about any research or projects that inspire you, and express your willingness to contribute to the team. We love seeing genuine passion for chemistry in applications!
Include Relevant References:Since chemistry roles can be quite specific, having reference letters from professors or previous employers in the field can be a huge plus. Make sure to include contacts who can vouch for your skills and dedication, as it adds credibility to your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at STEM Recruiters UK
✨Know Your Experiments
Get ready to chat about your hands-on experience in the lab. We should be prepared to discuss specific experiments we've conducted, the results, and any challenges we faced. This shows them we don't just know the theory but can apply it in practice!
✨Master the Technical Speak
Brush up on the relevant terminology and concepts in chemistry. Make sure we can discuss different chemical processes, analytical techniques, and safety protocols fluently, as they might throw some technical questions our way. Being precise and confident can really set us apart!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make a portfolio showcasing our best lab work and any research projects we've been involved in. It's a great way to demonstrate our skills and passion for chemistry. We should tailor it to highlight the aspects most relevant to STEM Recruiters UK and the Laboratory Chemist role.
✨Be Ready for Problem Solving
Expect some scenario-based questions where we might need to solve chemical problems on the spot. They could ask about unexpected results or how to improve a process. Let's practice thinking on our feet and explaining our thought process clearly!
