At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our R&D team to develop groundbreaking antimicrobial technologies that save lives.
- Company: Zonova, a mission-driven startup focused on eliminating hospital-acquired infections.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, 28 days holiday, employee share options, and rapid professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to thrive in a dynamic startup culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while growing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD or EngD in relevant fields, with a proactive and positive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
Salary: £50,000
Location: Ealing, London
Reports To: R&D Manager
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Start Date: July 2026 (can be flexible for the right candidate)
Benefits:
- Employee share option plan
- Flexible working hours
- 28 days holiday, excluding bank holidays
- Free on-site parking
- Accelerated professional development within a collaborative R&D environment, with mentorship and clear scope to grow into additional responsibilities over time
Company Overview:
Zonova is on a mission to eliminate hospital-acquired infections - one of the most serious and costly threats in modern healthcare. Zonova has developed a novel antimicrobial additive technology that embeds directly into medical devices, eliminating bacteria on contact. Our strategy is focused on vascular access devices first, before expanding into adjacent areas including urology, women's health, and orthopaedics.
Job Purpose:
You will be an integral, hands-on member of Zonova's R&D team, working closely alongside the R&D Manager to drive the development and testing of our antimicrobial technologies. We're looking for someone who rolls up their sleeves, brings a positive energy, and gets things done - equally comfortable at the bench and contributing ideas in a team setting.
Key Responsibilities:
- Product Development & Testing: Lead the formulation, processing, and optimisation of Zonova's polymer and material-based products. Carry out antimicrobial efficacy testing on samples you produce (full training provided).
- Project & Pilots Execution: Support the delivery of project timelines and contribute to pilot studies with external partners. Ensure protocols are followed, outcomes are well documented, and any issues are flagged proactively.
- Team Collaboration & Support: Work closely with the wider R&D team (3-4 members) in a supportive, collaborative way - sharing knowledge, helping troubleshoot challenges, and contributing positively to team culture.
- External Partnerships: Support working with external test houses as directed by the R&D Manager, maintaining confidentiality and alignment with Zonova's objectives.
- Data & Reporting: Produce clear summary reports of scientific data to support patent filings, and create presentations for conferences and stakeholders.
- Lab Management: Contribute to lab operations, including risk assessments, safety compliance, and resource management. Maintain accurate and thorough records of your own research and development activities.
- Scientific Communication: Represent Zonova at scientific conferences (typically 1 teamwide conference per year).
What We're Looking For:
- Positive, Can-Do Attitude: You approach challenges with a glass-half-full mindset, stay solution-focused under pressure, and bring an energy that lifts the people around you.
- Adaptability: Able to quickly pivot and find solutions in a dynamic, fast-changing environment.
- Creative Problem-Solving: Resourceful and innovative, especially when working with limited resources.
- Coachable & Open to Feedback: You actively seek feedback, take it on board without defensiveness, and adapt your approach to improve.
- Self-Motivated: You're proactive, take ownership, and don't wait to be told what to do next.
- Team Player: Willing to take on any task, connect with colleagues, and work collaboratively under pressure.
- Excitement for a Startup Environment: Passionate about growing with a small, mission-driven company.
- Respectful & Collaborative: Kind and considerate, fostering an inclusive and positive team culture.
Requirements:
Essential:
- Either: PhD or EngD in a relevant discipline (chemistry, polymer science, materials science, or similar) and/or relevant industry experience.
- A track record of getting things done: managing your own projects, meeting timelines, and working independently.
- Willingness to learn and carry out antimicrobial testing on samples you produce (full training and support provided).
- Positive, solution-focused attitude.
Nice to Have:
- Hands-on industry experience in chemistry and polymer science.
- Experience in a startup or fast-paced R&D environment.
- Prior experience working with and handling live microorganisms.
- Some experience supporting or mentoring others in a R&D team setting.
How to Apply - Please Read Carefully:
Please send both your CV and a short video (3 minutes max) to [email].
What to Cover in Your Video:
- What excites you about this opportunity at Zonova?
- What's one project or experience you're proud of - and why?
- Tell us about a time something went wrong in your work. What happened, and what did you do?
- What kind of team culture do you thrive in?
- What are you hoping to learn, grow, or create in this role?
Tips:
We're not looking for polished or rehearsed - just you, speaking honestly. No fancy editing needed - a simple recording from your phone or laptop is perfect.
Zonova is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
R&D Senior Scientist in Ealing employer: Zonova
Zonova is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative R&D environment in Ealing, London, where you can make a meaningful impact on healthcare by developing innovative antimicrobial technologies. With benefits like flexible working hours, an employee share option plan, and a strong focus on professional development, Zonova fosters a culture of growth and teamwork, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our mission of eliminating hospital-acquired infections.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Senior Scientist in Ealing
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to people in the industry, attend relevant events, and connect with Zonova's team on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality in that video application! Be genuine and let your passion for R&D shine through. We want to see the real you, so don’t hold back on sharing what excites you about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge and thinking about how your past experiences align with Zonova's mission. We love candidates who can connect their skills to our goals!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows that you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Zonova.
We think you need these skills to ace R&D Senior Scientist in Ealing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and perspectives.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the R&D Senior Scientist role. We love seeing how your background aligns with our mission at Zonova!
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we appreciate detail, clarity is key! Make sure your application is easy to read and gets straight to the point. We want to understand your qualifications without wading through fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zonova
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of chemistry, polymer science, and medical device development. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with Zonova's mission to eliminate hospital-acquired infections. Familiarise yourself with their antimicrobial additive technology and think about how you can contribute to its development.
✨Show Your Positive Energy
Zonova is looking for someone with a positive, can-do attitude. During the interview, demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and the company’s mission. Share examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past with a solution-focused mindset, and don’t shy away from discussing how you lift the spirits of those around you.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Since teamwork is key at Zonova, prepare to discuss your experiences working in collaborative environments. Think of specific instances where you supported your colleagues or contributed positively to team culture. Highlight your adaptability and willingness to learn from others, as this will resonate well with their values.
✨Prepare Your Video Pitch
Zonova asks for a short video as part of the application process. Use this opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role. Keep it genuine and relaxed—talk about what excites you about the position, share a proud project moment, and reflect on how you handle setbacks. Authenticity goes a long way!
