Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies 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.
- 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.
- Other info: Collaborative environment where your ideas can shape the future of sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
🌍 R&D Director/Manager – Graphene and Advanced Coatings (UK)
đź“Ť 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 employer: Universal Matter GBR Ltd
Contact Detail:
Universal Matter GBR Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Research Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals at events or online. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build relationships; you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you’re in interviews, don’t just talk about your experience—bring it to life with examples. We want to see how you’ve led teams and driven innovation in your past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company! Before any interview, dive deep into Universal Matter’s projects and values. We love candidates who show genuine interest and can discuss how their skills align with our mission in sustainable materials.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there that you won’t find anywhere else.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Research Development
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 specific projects related to graphene or advanced materials.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about sustainable materials innovation. Share specific examples of how you've driven product development and innovation in your previous roles.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see how you've led multidisciplinary teams in the past. Include examples of how you've fostered a culture of innovation and safety within your teams, as this is crucial for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply through our website. This way, your application will go directly to us, and we can review it promptly!
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 Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led R&D teams in the past. Highlight your mentoring approach and how you foster a culture of innovation and safety. This is crucial for a role that requires hands-on leadership.
✨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 is essential for overseeing laboratory operations and managing research projects.
✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration
Think of instances where you've worked closely with other departments, such as engineering or marketing. Being able to articulate how you align R&D with business needs will be key to showing your strategic mindset.