Materials Scientist in Liverpool

We are currently seeking an interim Materials Scientist, to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Domestos, Cif, Persil, and Comfort, and become an integral part of their fast-paced Scientific FMCG environment.

The position is based at the Materials Innovation Factory in Liverpool City Centre (L7), accessible by train, bus and car. This is a full-time temporary role to run for 6 months requiring 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £29,719 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.

The role supports innovations across the Home Care product portfolio, including laundry, hard surface cleaning, machine and hand dishwashing. The role will support the Advanced Materials & Surface Science (AMSS) Programme in the development and assessment of new low greenhouse gas and biodegradable products, formulations, and ingredients.

The ideal candidate has a strong materials science or chemistry background with experience in new materials development and evaluation. The ideal candidate also demonstrates excellent experimental technique, attention to detail for the creation of robust data sets and a strong commitment to safe practise in the laboratory.

A proven track record in the application of technical expertise in the development of insights and new technologies is essential, as is evidence of good decision-making and delivering effectively to deadlines.

The principal responsibilities of the role are to:

• Formulate ingredients into new cleaning products;
• Characterise the properties of new cleaning products or ingredients.
• identify and develop high performing biodegradable and sustainably sourced ingredients suitable for use in cleaning formulations;
• characterise the properties of new cleaning product ingredients;
• assess the performance and stability of these formulations using standard tests;
• development of new testing techniques to support the development of new products;
• generate robust data packages to support patenting, data publication and product claim generation.
• The role holder will also be required to follow standard laboratory protocols and demonstrate good laboratory skills. The role holder will also be expected to carry out basic data analysis, report results and make recommendations both in written and verbal form to key stakeholders.
• The role holder will work as part of a multidisciplinary team with chemists, modellers and other physical and biological scientists.

Experience and Skills

• Degree in materials science, materials chemistry or a closely related science field.
• Ability to clearly present and report results and recommendations to project teams.
• Good working knowledge and experience of using Microsoft Office
• Previous experience of innovation in home and personal care products is highly desirable but not essential.
• A background in development of biodegradable and sustainably sourced materials is highly desirable but not essential.
• Competencies
• Ability to managing own work plan, including experimental activities, data analysis and reporting.
• Ability to work independently and pro-actively under the guidance of AMSS workstream leaders.
• Flexibility and ability to work effectively on multiple technology themes in parallel.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal English) with the ability to convey technical data and technology insights to multi-disciplinary technical audiences.
• Excellent team working skills and ability to develop strong networks to enable delivery.

Materials Innovation Factory working environment:

Based in Liverpool city centre

Facilities purpose-built for innovation with cutting edge technology and world class expertise in materials chemistry and formulation.

Nearest train stations are Lime Street or Liverpool Central, which are within walking distance.