Higher Scientist - Sustainable Polymers

About the Role

NPL is seeking an experienced Higher Scientist to join our Surface Technology Group , where our experts collaborate with academia, industry and partners to advance measurement science and enable innovation. Our team develops the underpinning standards, testing methods and characterisation techniques that industry relies on to manufacture reliable products

As a Higher Scientist, you will play a key role in planning and delivering technical programmes that push our research forward. You will generate new knowledge, develop new methods, and identify opportunities where your discoveries can translate into impactful commercial services—strengthening NPL’s contribution to science, industry and society.

You’ll thrive in a collaborative environment where we learn from each other, respect one another, and work together to create the best outcomes for our customers, partners and the scientific community.

About You

You’ll be a researcher with a background in polymer science, with a passion for sustainable materials and measurement science.

What you can bring to the role:

• Experience in polymeric (nano) material synthesis and characterisation
• We are looking for candidates that can work independently as well as in a team and have a strong interest in experimental work.
• A PhD degree relevant to polymer chemistry
• Experience working in a laboratory environment or experience in an industrial research environment
• Experience leading, planning, and delivering complex research projects from conception to fruition.

We would also welcome the following:

• Expertise in recyclable or (bio) degradable polymers
• Knowledge of measurement techniques including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier transform Infrared Spectroscopy

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.

About Us

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits . Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.

To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.