Senior Surface Chemist

Job Description

Role OverviewQuantum Science Ltd (QS) is seeking a Senior Surface Chemist to join our R&D team based in Daresbury, UK. The Senior Surface Chemist will take a lead role in surface modification and functionalisation of nanomaterials. As a member of the team, you will have the opportunity to work on exciting projects to advance the company’s research and development. You will be given the flexibility to succeed and are provided avenues to reach your individual career goals while fulfilling the company’s mission.The work environment is fast-paced and requires comprehension and resolution of complex problems. A high level of self-discipline, initiative, and motivation is required as you will need to handle and prioritise multiple tasks simultaneously, with minimal supervision. Diligence towards meeting project requirements on schedule is essential.Company and Business OverviewQuantum Science is a leading material innovation company with strong portfolio of intellectual properties. We contribute to society through material innovations to transform image sensors for next generation smart phone, advanced driver-assistance systems and industrial automation, to change the way we detect diseases, and to introduce more efficient and cost-effective membrane technology for clean water. We have fostered strong relationships with leading research organisations and industrial partners to keep us at the forefront of innovation while achieving a stable foundation thanks to investors who share our long-term vision. Several of our R&D team innovators are from top universities in the world. We work closely with research and business partners to develop innovative technologies and then license the developed technologies to create a win-win partnership with our customers.Our company is based in Daresbury National Laboratory, Warrington.Main tasks and responsibility• Provide technical lead in surface modification and functionalisation of nanomaterials to make them compatible with the host matrix and/or enhance their performance as required.• Plan the research and experimental strategies for different type of materials includeo Synthesis of novel organic, inorganic compounds and polymerso Surface ligand exchange, surface passivation, surface-initiated polymerisation and bio-conjugationo Modification and functionalisation of polymerso Formulation development of nanomaterials in host matrixo Fabrication of thin film using different coating techniques• Carry out routine characterisation of materials using different techniques for organic, inorganic compounds and polymers, nanoparticles and thin films• Analyse data and suggest solutions to improve target properties• Provide guidance and technical support to other team members• Prepare progress technical reports, invention disclosure/patents clearly and accurately in timely manner to provide competitive advantage and protect QS’s IP• Actively contribute ideas to the team and the company.Skills and Experience• A PhD in chemistry, material science or equivalent degree with proven research record in surface chemistry and interfaces science. Preferred independent post-doc or research fellow or relevant industrial experience• Must have deep understanding nanoparticles surface processes and extensive research in surface modification and functionalisation of nanoparticles, crosslinking chemistry and coating methodologies• Experience in synthesis of small organic, inorganic compounds, polymerization reactions, polymer grafting and modification• Preferred experience in bio-conjugation chemistry• Excellent record of scientific research papers published in high impact factor journals and patents particularly in the field of surface chemistry of nanoparticles• Require to be creative and innovative to generate and implement ideas• Ability to plan, prioritise and address forthcoming issues• Multitasking capabilities• Strong organisation and influencing skills to effectively work with inter-disciplinary and cross-functional teams within QS or of external partners to achieve project goals• Prior experience in grant or proposal writing, scientific journals review is a plus• Excellent verbal and written communication skills including IT literacy (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint).KPI’s:• Achieving project milestones• Reporting results to Head of R&D in a timely manner• All invention disclosures/ patents filed in a timely manner• All samples are sent to other teams and customers in a timely manner• Identify needed equipment and carry out procurement if necessaryBenefits Package• Competitive salary• Performance-related bonus system• Pension contribution• Life insuranceQualified candidates should send the CV to HR by 13 November 2020.