Research And Development Manager

Job Title: RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Company: UNIVERSAL MATTER GBR LTD

Location: UK WILTON CENTRE, REDCAR, UK

Universal Matter is an innovative graphene manufacturer dedicated to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and decarbonizing our environment. We utilize a broad range of carbon materials, including waste streams, to produce cutting-edge graphene-based products that have the potential to revolutionize various industries. Our commitment to sustainability and technological advancement sets us apart as a leader in the field of graphene/advanced materials manufacturing. Universal Matter GBR Ltd is a global provider of innovative materials and solutions in the coatings industry.

Job Description

Seeking an experienced R&D Manager to lead our UK technical team in advancing graphene-based products across the paints and coatings industry. This role is instrumental in driving innovation, commercializing advanced materials, and supporting our commitment to a sustainable circular economy. You will work closely with scientists, engineers, and the Vice President of R&D to ensure strategic alignment and technical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and manage a team of scientists and technologists, providing strategic direction, mentorship, and
• performance oversight.
• Foster a culture of innovation, safety, and continuous improvement in the laboratory.
• Ensure effective knowledge transfer between R&D, operations, and commercial teams for successful product
• development and launch.
• Support the professional growth of team members through coaching and development planning.

2. Project Management

• Oversee multiple R&D projects from concept to completion, including internal initiatives and funded
• collaborations.
• Develop project plans, allocate resources, and ensure milestones are delivered on time and within budget.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to achieve project objectives and promote knowledge sharing.
• Maintain clear documentation of experimental work and present progress reports to stakeholders and senior
• leadership.

3. Laboratory Oversight & Safety

• Manage lab operations, ensuring compliance with SHE regulations and adherence to ISO 9001 quality standards.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized lab environment to support experimental activities.
• Oversee equipment maintenance, calibration, and resource utilization to support R&D and QC functions.
• Conduct safety risk assessments and support incident reporting and resolution.

4. New Product Development & Innovation

• Translate customer needs, market trends, and technological developments into new product opportunities.
• Work with business development to define and deliver customer-centric innovation programs.
• Lead formulation and development of graphene-enhanced dispersions and materials for paints, coatings, and
• other applications within the portfolio.
• Drive fast-turnaround development projects in response to urgent technical service needs.
• Ensure regulatory compliance (REACH, TSCA, EPA, etc.) and maintain supporting documentation with regulatory
• teams.

5. Technical Service & Customer Support

• Provide high-level technical support to customers through visits, presentations, and feedback sessions.
• Evaluate trial data and customer input to refine products and improve performance.
• Deliver technical presentations and documentation for both internal use and external engagement.

6. Scientific Testing & Expertise

• Design and execute experiments to meet technical requirements with emphasis on performance, sustainability,
• and efficiency.
• Collect and analyze experimental data; maintain detailed lab records and ensure data accuracy.
• Interpret performance data using ASTM, ISO, and BS/EN standards.
• Lead root-cause analysis and troubleshooting for product improvement.
• Develop and validate test methods with the R&D, QC, and operations teams.
• Implement and monitor quality control procedures for consistent product performance.

7. Intellectual Property & External Engagement

• Contribute to patent development and support expansion of the company’s IP portfolio.
• Represent the company at technical forums, conferences, and industry bodies.
• Monitor scientific literature and patent databases to track advances in graphene and materials science.
• Stay informed of evolving regulatory frameworks affecting the use of graphene in industrial applications.

Education & Experience Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Materials Science.
• Over 15 years of industry experience in formulation or polymer chemistry, preferably in coatings, composites, or
• advanced materials.
• Deep understanding of diverse chemistries, formulation techniques, and materials performance.
• Proven project leadership and cross-functional collaboration experience.
• Expertise in analytical methods, testing standards (ASTM, ISO, BS/EN), and data interpretation.
• Familiarity with quality systems, method development, and product scale-up to manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of safety protocols, SHE regulations, and lab equipment maintenance.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent communication skills for technical reporting and customer-facing presentations.
• Strong analytical and computational skills with acute attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in high-performance teams.
• Adaptability, accountability, and commitment to deadlines and quality.
• Openness to learning new technologies and exploring innovative approaches.
• Skilled in influencing and persuading others to refine processes or adopt new ideas.
• Problem-solving mindset with demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and implement solutions.
• Embodying company values: Impact, Curiosity, Honesty, Innovation, Courage, Passion, Humility, Judgement, and
• Communication.

Direct Reports:

• Applications Scientists and Development Technologists as required.

Benefits:

• Offer a competitive compensation package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. We foster a collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions are recognized and valued.

Position Location:

• On-site at The Wilton Centre in Redcar-Teesside, UK. Candidates must be based within commuting distance or willing to relocate.

Working Conditions

• Work “hands on” in a laboratory environment and connected office area. Must have valid work permit for UK and have valid UK driver’s license.

EEO Statement

• Universal Matter is an Equal Opportunities Employer. The company is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender, pregnancy, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, disability, medical history, skin colour, marital status, genetic information, or parental status. We base all our employment decisions on merit, job requirements and business needs. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
• We expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of our employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.

cherylh@universalmatter.com LEARN MORE AT www.universalmatter.com