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- Tasks: Lead a team to innovate and develop cutting-edge graphene products for the coatings industry.
- Company: Universal Matter is a pioneering graphene manufacturer focused on sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health insurance, retirement plans, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven company making a real impact in sustainability and advanced materials.
- Qualifications: MSc or PhD in relevant fields with 15+ years of industry experience required.
- Other info: Position based at The Wilton Centre in Redcar-Teesside; relocation may be necessary.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
Job Title: RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Company: UNIVERSAL MATTER GBR LTD
Location: UK WILTON CENTRE, TEESSIDE, UK
About Universal Matter GBR Ltd: 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
Research And Development Manager employer: Universal Matter Inc.
Contact Detail:
Universal Matter Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research And Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the graphene and advanced materials industry. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also increase your visibility to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any previous experience managing teams or projects. Prepare examples of how you've fostered innovation and collaboration in past roles, as this is crucial for the R&D Manager position.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with Universal Matter's products and their applications in the coatings industry. Understanding their current offerings and future goals will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your knowledge of safety protocols and quality systems, as these are essential for the role. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've ensured compliance and maintained high standards in previous positions.
We think you need these skills to ace Research And Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in research and development, particularly in the coatings or advanced materials sectors. Emphasise your leadership skills and any project management experience that aligns with the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for sustainability and innovation in graphene manufacturing. Mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and drive product development.
Highlight Technical Expertise: Clearly outline your technical skills and knowledge in chemistry, materials science, and analytical methods. Provide examples of how you've applied these skills in previous roles to achieve successful outcomes.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role involves customer support and technical presentations, include examples of your communication skills. Describe situations where you effectively conveyed complex information to diverse audiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Universal Matter Inc.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Research and Development Manager, you'll be leading a team of scientists and technologists. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style, how you foster innovation, and examples of how you've mentored team members in the past.
✨Demonstrate Project Management Experience
Highlight your experience in overseeing R&D projects from concept to completion. Be ready to share specific examples of project plans you've developed, resources you've allocated, and how you've ensured milestones were met on time and within budget.
✨Emphasise Safety and Compliance Knowledge
Given the importance of safety in laboratory operations, be sure to discuss your familiarity with SHE regulations and ISO 9001 standards. Prepare to explain how you've maintained a safe lab environment and conducted risk assessments in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to answer technical questions related to graphene and advanced materials. Brush up on your knowledge of formulation techniques, analytical methods, and testing standards (ASTM, ISO, BS/EN) to demonstrate your expertise in the field.
