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- Tasks: Support R&D by synthesising products and analysing formulations in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Join Verdant Specialty Solutions, a leader in sustainable surfactants and polymers.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, develop your skills, and enhance your CV with a 12-month placement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in innovative projects while working with cutting-edge chemistry.
- Qualifications: Studying for a Chemistry degree with lab experience and problem-solving skills.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Verdant Specialty Solutions have a vacancy for a University Student to work as an R&D Chemist at our Halifax Site for a 12-month Work Placement commencing July. The Halifax site is part of a group of 8 production sites globally that specialise in surfactants, natural and synthetic polymers, and amines. We develop formulations that provide our customers' sustainable and differentiated solutions with functional qualities designed to modify fluid behaviour and deliver cleansing, softening, moisturizing, gelling, texturing, and penetrating dispersal properties. Our products are found in a variety of end-markets, including home and personal care, agricultural specialties, industrial architectural coatings, oil, gas, and several industrial applications.
The purpose of the role is to provide support to the Technical Services and Commercial teams, and other departments with key duties as below:
- Synthesis of products in the lab up to 20 Kg scale using processes already used on plant or new processes to the site.
- Analysis of products using existing site analytical methods in QC lab or industry standard methods.
- Collation of data for statistical analysis in order to interpret and identify patterns and trends.
- Putting together formulations and/or blends of surfactants to meet customer needs then testing these products in the laboratory.
- Application performance testing, including testing of physical parameters, of surfactants and formulations.
- Supporting plant trials of new/development products.
- Ensuring lab storerooms are kept clean and tidy and that regular lab safety checks are done.
- Processing of samples to customers.
Skills and Experience Required:
- Studying for a Bachelors/Masters Hons Chemistry or related degree.
- Basic understanding of surfactants and organic chemistry.
- Be familiar with laboratory practical experimental work and equipment.
- Good communication, mathematical and IT skills (Proficiency in Excel desirable).
- Problem-solving ability.
- Ability to manage own workload / be proactive / work unsupervised.
- Ability to build co-operative working relationships across departments.
Work Placement employer: Verdant Specialty Solutions
Contact Detail:
Verdant Specialty Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Work Placement
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's alumni or professors who might have connections in the industry. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to R&D and chemistry. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for chemistry! Bring examples of your projects or lab work to interviews. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Work Placement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the R&D Chemist role. Highlight your chemistry studies and any relevant lab experience. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you're passionate about surfactants and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your problem-solving abilities and any experience with statistical analysis or Excel. These skills are super important for the role, so let us know how you’ve used them in your studies or projects.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into our hands quickly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Verdant Specialty Solutions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Verdant Specialty Solutions
✨Know Your Chemistry
Brush up on your knowledge of surfactants and organic chemistry. Be ready to discuss how these concepts apply to the role and share any relevant lab experiences you have. This will show your passion and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Lab Skills
Prepare to talk about your hands-on experience in the lab. Highlight specific experiments or projects you've worked on, especially those involving product synthesis or analysis. This will demonstrate your practical skills and readiness for the role.
✨Data is Key
Since the role involves data collation and statistical analysis, be prepared to discuss any experience you have with data interpretation. Mention any tools or methods you’ve used, particularly in Excel, to analyse trends or patterns in your work.
✨Communication is Crucial
Effective communication is essential in this role. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others or presented findings. This will illustrate your ability to build relationships across departments, which is vital for success at Verdant Specialty Solutions.
