At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead R&D team to innovate sustainable graphene-based coatings and drive product development.
- Company: Join Universal Matter, a leader in sustainable graphene innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, health insurance, retirement plans, and professional growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment where your ideas can change the world.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global decarbonisation through cutting-edge materials science.
- Qualifications: MSc or PhD in relevant field with 15+ years of R&D experience.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
🌍 R&D Director/Manager – Graphene and Advanced Coatings (UK)
📍 Location: The Wilton Centre, Redcar (On-site)
🏢 Company: Universal Matter GBR Ltd
🧪 Sector: Advanced Materials / Coatings / Sustainability
About Universal Matter GBR Ltd
Universal Matter is a global leader in sustainable graphene innovation. We transform carbon into graphene enabled advanced materials that drive decarbonisation across industries. Our UK site at The Wilton Centre in Redcar is at the forefront of developing next-generation coatings technologies that combine performance, circularity, and environmental responsibility.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced R&D Director/Manager to lead our UK technical team in advancing graphene-based products for the paints and coatings industry.
This hands-on leadership role blends strategic R&D management, product innovation, and scientific excellence — accelerating the commercialisation of graphene-enhanced materials that enable a sustainable future.
You’ll collaborate closely with scientists, engineers, and senior leadership to translate research breakthroughs into scalable industrial solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary R&D team, fostering a culture of innovation and safety.
- Manage multiple research projects from concept through to commercialisation.
- Oversee laboratory operations in compliance with SHE and ISO 9001 standards.
- Drive new product development for graphene-enhanced coatings and dispersions.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to align R&D with business and market needs.
- Provide high-level technical support to customers and partners.
- Contribute to intellectual property development and represent the company at technical forums.
- Ensure compliance with REACH, TSCA, and other regulatory frameworks.
About You
- MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
- 15+ years’ experience in formulation chemistry, coatings, composites, or advanced materials.
- Proven track record leading R&D teams and delivering innovation to market.
- Strong knowledge of analytical methods, testing standards (ASTM, ISO, BS/EN), and data interpretation.
- Familiarity with scale-up processes, quality systems, and safety protocols.
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
- Right to work in the UK and a valid UK driver’s licence required.
Why Join Us
At Universal Matter, you’ll help redefine what’s possible in sustainable materials innovation.
We offer:
- Competitive compensation and benefits (health insurance, retirement plans, professional development) relative to experience and education.
- A collaborative, forward-thinking environment where your ideas make a real impact.
- The opportunity to contribute to global decarbonisation through science and technology.
Join a team that’s passionate about innovation, integrity, and making a difference.
cherylvl@universalmatter.com www.universalmatter.com
#Graphene #AdvancedMaterials #R&D #Coatings #Sustainability #Innovation #MaterialsScience #ChemicalEngineering #CleanTech #UKJobs #ResearchLeadership
Director of Research Development in York employer: Universal Matter GBR Ltd
Universal Matter GBR Ltd is an exceptional employer located at The Wilton Centre in Redcar, where innovation meets sustainability in the field of advanced materials. We foster a collaborative and forward-thinking work culture that empowers our employees to make meaningful contributions towards global decarbonisation, while offering competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and ample opportunities for professional growth. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to redefining the future of sustainable materials through cutting-edge research and development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Research Development in York
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meetups. The more you mingle, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they hit the market.
✨Show Off Your Expertise
Don’t just wait for the interview to showcase your skills. Share your knowledge on platforms like LinkedIn or even write articles about graphene and advanced coatings. This positions you as a thought leader and makes you more attractive to potential employers.
✨Tailor Your Approach
When reaching out to companies, make sure to tailor your message to their specific needs. Highlight how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in sustainability and innovation. This shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested.
✨Apply Through Our Website
If you’re keen on joining Universal Matter, don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and really want to be part of our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Research Development in York
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of R&D Director/Manager. Highlight your experience in formulation chemistry and leading R&D teams, as well as any relevant projects that showcase your innovation in advanced materials.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for Universal Matter. Share your passion for sustainable materials and how your background aligns with our mission to drive decarbonisation through graphene innovation.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, emphasise your leadership experience. We want to see how you've mentored teams and driven projects from concept to commercialisation, especially in the coatings industry.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Universal Matter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Universal Matter GBR Ltd
✨Know Your Graphene Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest advancements in graphene and advanced coatings. Understand how they relate to sustainability and decarbonisation, as this will show your passion for the field and your alignment with the company's mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led R&D teams in the past. Highlight your ability to foster innovation and safety within a multidisciplinary environment, as this is crucial for the role at Universal Matter.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Compliance
Familiarise yourself with relevant regulations like REACH and TSCA. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your understanding of the industry's standards and practices.
✨Engage with Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to formulation chemistry and analytical methods. Brush up on ASTM, ISO, and BS/EN testing standards, and be ready to explain how you've applied these in your work to drive product innovation.
