Research Scientist - Catalyst Synthesis

Research Scientist – Catalyst Synthesis and Scaling Up

Job Type: Full-time, On-site, 6-Month Contract with potential for permanency

Join a pioneering technology start-up focused on developing next-generation clean energy technologies. We are looking for a Research Scientist to contribute to the scale-up of proprietary catalysts, playing a crucial role in creating innovative solutions for green electricity and clean water production. Ideal candidates will be local to Oxford for a quicker start.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Scale up proprietary catalyst materials from laboratory to pilot-scale quantities.
• Design and synthesise new catalyst variants using both established and novel methods.
• Efficiently manage chemistry laboratory resources and troubleshoot procedures.
• Conduct quality control testing and prepare detailed technical data sheets.
• Identify opportunities for intellectual property creation and collaborate on patent protection.
• Maintain excellent scientific records, implement data management systems, and ensure compliance with COSHH regulations.
• Present work in internal meetings and external forums, contributing actively to lab discussions and knowledge sharing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support testing and integration into downstream applications.
• Perform and interpret advanced materials characterisation using techniques such as TEM, SEM, XRD, XPS, EPR, Raman, IR, and UV-Vis.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• A postgraduate degree (PhD or MSc) in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering.
• At least 2+ years of additional experience in a laboratory setting (5+ years for MSc candidates).
• Excellent knowledge of synthetic inorganic chemistry and material characterisation.
• Proven experience in solid-state material synthesis, including hydrothermal, sol-gel, impregnation, and precipitation methods.
• Skilled in operating and maintaining high-temperature furnaces.
• Strong understanding of COSHH and laboratory safety procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain organised, accurate lab records and use digital data management tools.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative environment.
• Be part of a team that is transforming the hydrogen and energy industries for a sustainable future.
• Competitive compensation package.

To apply for this Research Scientist position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position. Candidates local to Oxford are highly encouraged to apply for a quicker integration and start.