Location: St Austell

Hours of work: 37.5h Mon -Fri

Contract: Full time / Permanent

Salary: Competitive

As a Method Development Scientist, you will support the Analytical Laboratory Manager in developing new analytical method projects.

Why work for Imerys?

At Imerys every member of our team matters. Our priority is the health and safety of our people and our aim is to create diverse and inclusive workplaces. We are always striving to be better and to support our people to continuously learn, improve and innovate. This allows them to tap into their full potential and to take advantage of the wealth of career and development opportunities available. 

Your role: As a Method Develop Scientist your role will involve not only developing innovative methodologies but also setting up and optimising state-of-the-art instrumentation, particularly focusing on ICP-OES, ICP-MS and also in XR technics.

The key tasks and your responsibilities: 

• Lead method development and instrument setup projects on a laboratory scale, adhering to a predefined program established by the Analytical Laboratory Manager.
• Develop, optimize and prepare analytical methods for internal use, ensuring they meet the required standard for validation and transfer.
• Perform test measurements using approved methodologies, with a specialized focus on ICP-OES and ICP-MS techniques. Additionally, contribute to mineral analysis projects and participate in Rietveld analysis to further our understanding of mineral compositions.
• Draft new Approved Test Methods for each project, showcasing your expertise in method development and innovation.
• Present the findings of method development projects, contributing to the continuous improvement of analytical capabilities across the organization.
• Serve as an expert in methodologies related to the Wet Chemistry and X-ray labs, including handling customer claims and providing training to fellow technicians on specified methods and instruments, with the full support of the Analytical Lab Manager.
• Contribute to the maintenance of laboratory accreditations such as ISO/IEC 17025:2017 by assisting in the preparation of approved test methods, calibration lists, and other relevant documentation.
• Development of new analytical methods and techniques.

What’s in for you? Your benefits:

• Equivalent of 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Generous Pension Plan
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Company Sick Pay
• Discounts on external retailers
• Cycle to work scheme

We also offer a comprehensive package to support the Wellbeing of our people which includes:

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Virtual GP
• Flu and Eye care vouchers
• Enhanced – family friendly policies
• Menopause Support

What do we ask in return? You will have a strong educational background, holding a BSc in Chemistry, Science, or Materials Science, complemented by an MSc, and preferably a PhD in the relevant field in Chemistry, Science, or Materials Science.

You will have experience working within a laboratory setting, specifically in method development roles, showcasing proficiency in the safe handling of laboratory equipment and chemicals and the following skills:

• ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instruments
• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Materials or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS instrumentation, preferably in a method development capacity.
• Familiarity with mineral analysis techniques and experience with Rietveld analysis is a plus.
• Proficiency in method development and optimization, with a strong understanding of analytical techniques and principles.
• Familiar with quality management systems and laboratory accreditations, such as ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyse complex problems and develop solutions.
• Potential to take on leadership roles in guiding team members or projects.
• Skills in resolving conflicts constructively and diplomatically.
• Ability to mentor less experienced team members, fostering growth and development.
• Understanding of quality assurance principles and practices in a laboratory setting.
• Spreadsheet and Word document skills (MS Office and/or Google Docs/Sheets)

We would like our application process to be accessible to all - if you require an alternative way to apply then please get in touch on 01952 281924. 

IMERYS is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, and it is our policy to not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local laws.