Analytical Scientist in Cambridge

We are developing next-generation polymer electrolyte systems to enable safer, higher-energy sodium batteries. As we move from laboratory validation toward pilot production and manufacturing readiness, we are seeking an Analytical Scientist to lead advanced material characterization and define the analytical standards that support scale-up. In this role, you will build and execute the analytical framework that underpins both R&D development and production quality control. You will generate high-quality, reproducible data across polymer synthesis and battery validation, define pass/fail criteria, and ensure analytical workflows align with product milestones. Your work will directly impact material optimization, degradation understanding, and readiness for mass production.

Key Responsibilities

• Advanced Material Characterization
  • Operate and manage analytical equipment including TGA, DMA, SEM/TEM, GC, and related polymer and electrochemical characterization tools.
  • Conduct testing at both polymer-material level and battery-cell level.
  • Generate clear, structured reports describing material behavior, degradation pathways, and performance limitations.
  • Ensure safe handling of chemicals and maintain high accuracy in sample preparation and analysis.
• Standardization & Analytical Frameworks
  • Develop standardized testing protocols across electrolyte, polymer, and battery systems.
  • Define clear pass gate criteria for materials progressing from lab-scale research to pilot validation and pre-mass-production readiness.
  • Establish structured analytical workflows aligned with multi-generation product development roadmaps.
  • Identify critical quality parameters required for scalable manufacturing.
• Mass Production Analytics
  • Design analytical strategies to anticipate scale-up challenges.
  • Identify variability risks in synthesis and processing.
  • Support implementation of analytical quality-control frameworks for future production environments.
  • Ensure testing methodologies are compatible with drop-in manufacturing strategies.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with materials scientists and engineers to streamline testing workflows.
  • Define clear sample preparation requirements to ensure consistency across teams.
  • Support troubleshooting during R&D and pilot programs.
  • Communicate analytical bottlenecks and technical risks to leadership.
  • Collaborate with external research or manufacturing partners as needed.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Hands‑on experience operating advanced analytical equipment such as TGA, DMA, SEM, GC, or similar systems.
• Strong understanding of polymer characterization and electrochemical material testing.
• High precision in chemical handling and experimental execution.
• Ability to deliver accurate results in a fast‑paced R&D environment.
• Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate across technical teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with polymer electrolytes or battery materials.
• Experience defining quality‑control standards or pass/fail criteria in industrial settings.
• Familiarity with degradation analysis and interphase characterization.
• Experience supporting pilot manufacturing or scale‑up programs.
• Comfortable operating in an early‑stage deep‑tech startup with high ownership.

Who You Are

You are an independent, rigorous scientist who takes full ownership of your analytical work from experimental design to final reporting. You are comfortable operating autonomously and building structure where it does not yet exist. You do not wait for detailed instructions. You identify gaps, define testing standards, and proactively improve analytical workflows. You think critically about reproducibility, scalability, and long‑term product impact. You understand that data quality directly influences material decisions and manufacturing readiness. You are disciplined in documentation, precise in execution, and uncompromising in safety standards. You thrive in a fast‑moving environment where your work directly shapes material development and commercialization strategy.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity compensation commensurate with experience.
• Inclusive and mission‑driven work environment.
• 20 days annual leave plus public holidays.
• Company pension scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme offering confidential counselling and personal support services.
• Access to an online wellbeing tool for fast, confidential wellbeing guidance.
• Bright Exchange employee benefits platform providing discounts and exclusive offers across a wide range of products and services.
• Support with visa activities.