Join our team as a detail-oriented, enthusiastic coloration scientist to manage our R&D laboratory, develop and scale up colorants and coloration technologies for commercial applications.
Keracol is a spin-out company from The University of Leeds, combining high-end physical science with innovative applications to produce natural and sustainable hair dyes, colour cosmetics, hair care, skin care and sun care products.
The ideal candidate holds a science-based degree, preferably in colour chemistry, organic chemistry or a closely-related discipline, and has strong communication skills, with experience in a R&D laboratory setting.
Keracol offers a permanent position with attractive salary, company shares scheme, and comfortable work environment, with opportunities for growth and development within the company.
* Provide technical support and scientific research to all Keracol R&D projects.
* Development and optimisation of colorants, coloration technologies and coloration products for commercial applications.
* Conducting all analytical chemistry work required for the analysis of chemicals and materials involved in these research projects.
* Development, testing, data analysis and scale-up of new processes.
* Supporting the R&D team in designing and formulating colour cosmetic products.
* Managing stability testing and performance testing of the ingredients in formulations as well as external testing.
* Preparing safety assessments for new products.
* Critically interpret experimental data and identify quality improvement opportunities.
Essential
* Masters degree (or equivalent industrial experience in a research environment) in an appropriate science-based degree, preferably in colour chemistry, organic chemistry, or a closely-related discipline.
* Minimum 3 years' experience in a R&D laboratory setting.
* Clear understanding of laboratory safety procedures, e.g. COSHH and risk assessments.
* Creative problem solver.
* Solid teamwork and interpersonal skills
* Ability to meet deadlines.
* Proven ability to communicate results of research effectively, through oral and written media to a high standard.
Desirable
* Experience of working with CIE Lab Colour Space and Kubelka-Munk theory.
* Potential to be innovative, and generate and deliver on new ideas.
* Experience of dyeing and coloration methods and relevant analytical methods (HPLC, UV-Vis, spectrophotometry).
* Knowledge of dyes and pigments.
* Experience in working with natural colorants.
* Knowledge of sustainability and green chemistry principles.
* Experience in colour cosmetic formulation and product design.
* Experience in hair dyes and dyeing processes.
* Experience of working in a commercial environment.
* Experience of working in the Personal/Consumer Care sectors.
* Business knowledge and acumen within a relevant industry.