Stopford Lancaster, England, United Kingdom
2 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Stopford has an exciting opportunity for a Lead Research Chemist to join our Technology & Innovation Team.
The Role of Lead Research Chemist
The Lead Research Chemist plays a pivotal role within our organisation, focusing on advancing and commercialising technologies related to the circular economy. The role emphasizes sustainable chemical processing, including materials science and process chemistry for chemical recycling, plasma gasification, alternative energy, and sustainable fertiliser production.
As Lead Research Chemist, you will oversee chemistry workstreams, contribute to experimental design, data interpretation, and scale-up activities. You will collaborate with process engineers and multidisciplinary teams to translate laboratory results into scalable, commercially viable technologies. Your responsibilities include conducting experimental trials, developing process design documents (PFDs, heat and mass balances, process simulations), and supporting innovation and technical excellence.
You will manage laboratory programs, coordinate with external laboratories, and generate analytical data for technology validation, process optimisation, and IP development. Strategic thinking and innovative ideas are essential to guide research priorities.
This position offers the chance to work on diverse projects at the intersection of academia and industry. If you are passionate about using chemistry to address global sustainability challenges and enjoy collaborative, fast-paced environments, we would love to hear from you.
This is a full-time position based in Lancaster with hybrid working options and occasional travel.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead process chemistry workstreams for technology development and commercialisation.
* Manage chemistry-focused R&D projects for clients.
* Translate experimental outputs into process design and scale-up activities.
* Conduct wet-chemistry and technology trials.
* Manage analyses with external labs.
* Report process data for commercialisation.
* Review patents for FTO and IPR strategies.
* Ensure safety and compliance in all activities.
* Build relationships with stakeholders and supply chain partners.
* Promote continuous improvement and team development.
* Line manage junior team members, supporting their growth.
* Support company-wide initiatives.
Role Requirements
* Relevant industry experience.
* Degree or PhD in chemistry or related field.
* Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
* Experience in technology transfer, scale-up, and project management.
* Knowledge of experimental design and physical property analysis.
* Experience with organic/inorganic chemical analysis.
* Willingness to work hands-on in labs and demonstration sites.
* Strong data analysis and reporting skills.
* Experience bridging industry and academia.
* Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
* Ability to maintain auditable records.
* Commitment to safety.
* Teamwork and information sharing ethos.
* Ability to manage uncertainty and adapt to change.
* Eligible to work in the UK; full UK driving licence.
* Proficient in Office 365, Word, Excel, OneDrive, SharePoint.
Security Clearance
The successful candidate must obtain and maintain Security Check (SC) clearance.
Benefits
* Profit-related bonus (10%)
* Pension scheme (5% employer and employee contributions)
* Additional day off for your birthday
* Private medical insurance (dental, optical)
* Employee assistance program
* Free on-site parking
* Reimbursement of professional membership fees
* Long service awards
Visit our website for a full job description and application details. We do not accept agency applications. You must be eligible to work in the UK.
We look forward to your CV for the Lead Research Chemist role. Apply promptly, as the closing date may be advanced if suitable applications are received. If you do not hear within 3 weeks, consider your application unsuccessful.
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