9 Material Science jobs in the United Kingdom

Our client, a renowned research and development institution focused on advanced materials and nanotechnology, is seeking an accomplished Senior Research Scientist with expertise in Material Science. This role is based in **Plymouth, Devon, UK**, with the possibility of a hybrid working arrangement. We are at the forefront of innovation, developing novel materials for applications in aerospace, energy, and biomedical devices. As a Senior Research Scientist, you will lead cutting-edge research projects, design and conduct experiments, analyze complex data, and contribute to the development of groundbreaking material solutions. Your responsibilities will include formulating research hypotheses, selecting appropriate methodologies, and operating advanced analytical and characterization equipment. You will be responsible for interpreting experimental results, drawing conclusions, and preparing detailed technical reports and publications for peer-reviewed journals and conferences. Collaboration is key; you will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers, as well as external academic and industrial partners. Grant writing and proposal development will also be an important part of your role to secure future research funding. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field, with a minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in a relevant area. Expertise in specific material synthesis techniques, characterization methods (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy), and theoretical modeling is highly desirable. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills are essential, as is the ability to independently manage research projects from inception to completion. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required for disseminating research findings. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to significant scientific advancements and drive innovation in a leading research environment.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and conduct innovative research projects in material science and nanotechnology.
• Design and execute experimental protocols for material synthesis, characterization, and testing.
• Operate and maintain advanced scientific instrumentation (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, AFM).
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data using statistical and computational tools.
• Develop theoretical models and simulations to understand material properties and behavior.
• Write comprehensive research reports, technical documentation, and scientific publications for peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional research teams and external partners.
• Contribute to the preparation of research proposals and grant applications.
• Mentor junior researchers and provide technical guidance.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in advanced materials.
• Proven expertise in material synthesis, processing, and characterization techniques.
• Proficiency with a range of analytical and microscopy techniques.
• Strong theoretical foundation in solid-state physics, chemistry, or mechanics of materials.
• Experience with computational materials science tools or simulations is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of scientific publications.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple research projects effectively.

This role is located in **Plymouth, Devon, UK**, offering a competitive salary and benefits package.

Our client is a cutting-edge research and development organisation seeking a highly skilled and innovative Senior Research Scientist specializing in Material Science. This role, based in Nottingham , offers a hybrid working arrangement, combining collaborative sessions at our advanced laboratory facilities with dedicated remote working for analysis and report generation. You will be at the forefront of discovering and developing novel materials with applications across various high-tech industries. Your responsibilities will include designing and executing experiments, analysing material properties, developing new synthesis and characterisation techniques, and contributing to the publication of research findings. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field, coupled with a strong publication record and extensive experience in advanced materials research. You will be adept at leveraging a wide array of analytical instrumentation and computational modelling tools. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including engineers and product developers, will be crucial for translating laboratory discoveries into tangible technological advancements. This position requires a deep understanding of material behaviour, synthesis methods, and characterisation techniques. A proactive approach to problem-solving and a passion for scientific discovery are essential. You will be expected to lead research projects, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to securing future research funding through grant applications. This is an exceptional opportunity to work on groundbreaking research in a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to make a significant contribution to scientific progress. Qualifications:

• PhD in Material Science, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Extensive research experience in material synthesis, characterisation, and property analysis.
• Proven track record of scientific publications and presentations.
• Proficiency in using advanced analytical equipment (e.g., SEM, TEM, XRD, spectroscopy).
• Experience with computational modelling of materials is highly desirable.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and experimental design skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid research environment.

Join us in pushing the boundaries of material science from our research hub in Nottinghamshire , driving innovation that shapes industries.

Our client is looking for a visionary Head of Advanced Materials Engineering to lead their cutting-edge research and development efforts. This position is entirely remote, allowing you to contribute from any location within the UK. You will be at the forefront of developing and implementing novel materials solutions that will revolutionize our client's manufacturing processes and product lines. Your responsibilities will encompass leading a team of talented materials scientists and engineers, managing research projects from conception to commercialization, and fostering a culture of innovation and scientific rigor. This includes directing research into areas such as composites, polymers, ceramics, and advanced alloys, with a focus on enhancing performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. You will collaborate closely with product development, engineering, and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of new materials into production. A key aspect of this role is staying abreast of the latest technological advancements and industry trends in materials science, and translating these insights into actionable strategies. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership qualities, a strong strategic mindset, and a deep technical understanding of materials characterization, processing, and application. You will be responsible for securing research grants, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with all relevant safety and environmental regulations. Proven experience in leading R&D projects within the manufacturing or production sector is essential. A Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is highly desirable. You should be skilled in communicating complex technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences, and possess excellent project management capabilities. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of materials innovation and drive significant advancements in the manufacturing industry from the comfort of your home office. We seek an individual who is passionate about scientific discovery and committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible with advanced materials.

**Career Area:**
Students and Graduates
**Job Description:**
**Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.**
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
**Materials Engineering - 12 Month Industrial Placement Scheme**
**Discipline: Advanced Materials and Technology - Engineering**
**Location: Peterborough, UK**
**Salary** : **£26,000, Share Scheme, Pension and 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays).**
We currently have exciting opportunities for industrial placement students to join Caterpillar across several of our sites. You will have the opportunity to work with others across our organisation and you will be directly involved, at the heart of our business, participating on strategic projects.
**What do we do?**
Caterpillar Inc. is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. Since 1925, we've been driving sustainable progress and helping customers build a better world through innovative products and services. Throughout the product life cycle, we offer services built on cutting-edge technology and decades of product expertise. These products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value to help our customers succeed.
We have a clear vision to be the global leader in providing customer value in the markets in which we operate. Our core values (Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork, Commitment and Sustainability) are key to our success.
**Advanced Materials & Technology (AMT) - Europe - Peterborough, UK:**
At our Peterborough Campus we have a 17 - person materials engineering team, who support the engineering & test teams through materials recommendations, observations, and assessments. Supporting programs of work within the Peterborough campus and our extended Caterpillar customers within the UK & Europe. Our world class 'accredited' lab facilities allowing us to support the development of new technologies and derive solutions for our global Caterpillar manufacturing customers, always supporting the drive for sustainability through the company. Additionally, as part of the AMT 350 - person global team we draw on our internal expertise to develop materials-based solutions for all our global Caterpillar customer requests.
**Diversity at Caterpillar**
When we leverage our people's experiences, backgrounds, and cultures in an inclusive environment, we enable every individual to achieve their full potential, which drives business success. We are proud to be active partners with both the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) & Women's Engineering Society (WES). We also have numerous well supported employee resource groups. Caterpillar is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.
**What experiences can we offer you?**
Our industrial placement training scheme is a 12-month placement. From day one you will be embedded in a team solving real world problems. You will get to work and collaborate with people in Caterpillar facilities worldwide.
As an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity at Caterpillar and believe the more experience you can gain early in your career the further you can go. That's why during our yearlong scheme we place an emphasis on multiple diverse projects. You will have the opportunity to work and collaborate with people in Caterpillar facilities worldwide and we are looking for you to bring fresh, innovative ideas to solve complex technical problems. You will be a fully involved team member with responsibility and accountability for key project deliverables. That said, you will be given all the support you require to be successful.
Our placement roles have the additional benefit of a workplace mentor/buddy. This could be your manager or a technical expert who will support you throughout your time at Caterpillar and help you gain the professional development and skills you need to be set up for success! Our placement students can expect to return to university with further developed technical skills and experience of how University learning is applied to the workplace.
We also operate a conditional offer process; our highest performing placement students are fast tracked to our graduate development scheme. This includes a financial incentive and the potential of a summer work placement. Offers will be made based on the condition that a graduate role is available at the time of your graduation and that you achieve a min of 2:2.
**Role specific job duties**
+ Materials assessments, metallic & non-metallic to standards & specifications
+ Detailed component and materials failure analysis
+ Development of new assessment process's/technologies
+ Supplier process audit assessment & support
+ Validation & testing of components/materials
+ Internal design projects & project management
+ Team internal data analytics & creation
+ Involvement with lab accreditation & H&S requirements/improvements
**Who are we looking for?**
As the type of roles within our business are becoming more diverse, we are looking for people who are open minded, excellent problem solvers and who have an ability to learn quickly. You will be motivated, hard-working, and will embrace change. In return for your dedication and hard work, you will be provided with excellent career opportunities and strong support for your personal and career development to pursue a career within Caterpillar.
Applicants will be on target to achieve a minimum of 2:2 honours degree level in a relevant discipline:
+ Materials
+ Science
+ Engineering - Aeronautical, Aerospace, Agricultural, Automotive, Mechanical
+ Metallurgy
+ Chemistry
**Key Specific role requirements**
+ Materials Engineering
+ Science
+ Chemistry
**Recruitment Process Guidelines:**
Here is a brief overview of what you can expect when applying to our Early Career roles.
**Online Application** : The first stage of the process is to complete the online application and attach your CV, this must be done before the closing date of the role that you're applying for. Once we reach the close date, we will begin reviewing all our applications, this may take a little while and we will contact you as soon as possible to let you know if you have been successful in moving forward to the next stage.
**Stage one** - Video Interview: If selected, you will be invited to complete a user-friendly video interview which will then be reviewed by the Hiring Team. At this stage, if you are successful, you will be invited to attend an Assessment Centre which we anticipate will be held on 13th January 2026 onsite at our Peterborough facility so please try to keep that date free. We would also recommend that you check your spam emails and your online Workday account for updates.
**Stage two** - Assessment Centre: The Assessment Centre Day will look at a range of behaviours such as teamwork, decision-making, communication, and problem-solving. We aim to make these days fun, inclusive and as relaxed as possible.
**Stage three** - Offer: After the Assessment Centre, the Caterpillar team will review the feedback and extend offers to our preferred candidates, we aim to do this as quickly as possible. Placement Students will start on 6th July 2026. We look forward to receiving your application to join Caterpillar!
**NOTE:**
+ Only one application is required, please do not apply for multiple roles. You may be given the opportunity of being considered for other roles/locations at a later stage.
+ The panel cannot make assumptions when shortlisting therefore please demonstrate your qualifications and experience on your CV relevant to the criteria outlined.
+ Pending the number of applications, the criteria for the position may be enhanced to facilitate shortlisting, this may include amendments to the job posting dates.
**Additional Info**
+ This role is based from the office in Peterborough and will require 5 days per week on site.
**Posting Dates:**
October 15, 2025 - November 12, 2025
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community ( .

Job Description

Junior Materials Technician (Engineering)

£26,000 - £28,000 + Bonus + 31 Days Holiday + Flexible Hours + Private healthcare + Benefits

Honiton, Devon

Are you an Aspiring Engineer with an interest in materials looking to join a technical materials testing business who will offer you flexible hours, private healthcare and a bonus?

On offer is the opportunity to create a prosperous career within a growin.

ZIPC1_UKTJ

Our client is a leading innovator in advanced materials and is looking for a highly skilled Senior Materials Scientist to join their esteemed R&D department in Aberdeen, Scotland, UK . This role focuses on the development, characterization, and application of novel polymer materials for a variety of industrial sectors. You will be instrumental in driving research initiatives, collaborating with engineering teams, and translating fundamental material science principles into practical, high-performance solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a strong academic background in Polymer Science or a related field, coupled with significant hands-on experience in polymer synthesis, processing, and advanced characterization techniques.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead research and development projects focused on the design and synthesis of advanced polymer materials.
• Characterize the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of polymers using a range of analytical techniques.
• Develop and optimize polymer processing methods (e.g., extrusion, injection molding, 3D printing).
• Collaborate closely with product development and engineering teams to ensure materials meet performance specifications.
• Investigate material failures and recommend corrective actions.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in polymer science and related fields.
• Author technical reports, research papers, and contribute to patent applications.
• Mentor junior scientists and provide technical guidance.
• Manage laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Qualifications and Skills:

• PhD or Master's degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in polymer research and development.
• Strong expertise in polymer synthesis, characterization (spectroscopy, microscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing), and processing.
• Experience with computational modeling of polymers is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple projects.
• Familiarity with industrial applications of polymers.

This hybrid role allows for a mix of on-site work at our Aberdeen facility, focusing on laboratory experiments and team collaboration, and remote work for data analysis, reporting, and literature review. We offer a stimulating research environment and competitive compensation.

**DESCRIPTION**
Our culture believes in **_POWERING YOUR POTENTIAL_** . We provide global opportunities to develop your career, make your community a better place and work with today's most innovative thinkers to solve the world's toughest problems.
We believe in flexibility for you to explore your passions while making an impact through meaningful work within our inclusive workforce. That's what **_#LifeAtCummins_** is all about.
We are looking for an enthusiastic Materials Science & Engineering Placement Student to join our team specializing in Engineering for our Components Business segment in Huddersfield.During your placement with us, you will learn how a major global organization operates, gaining the tools and exposure you will need to become an expert in the industry and **power your potential!**
This role is available to candidates who qualify for a placement year and will commence **Summer of 2026.**
**RESPONSIBILITIES**
In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways:
+ Supporting new product development teams by identifying and evaluating the most appropriate materials and processes to meet customer needs, cost targets and sustainability goals
+ Manage quality by conducting component failure analysis and testing to directly inform customer protection actions or supplier quality management actions.
+ Collaborating with global internal and external cross-functional stakeholders, understanding initial requirements. Presenting conclusions and recommendations following completion of analysis and testing.
+ Creating new and developing further existing testing processes for materials and components.
+ Work on long-term investigative product development projects across the business.
**QUALIFICATIONS**
To be successful in this role you will need the following:
+ We are looking for a wide range of candidates studying towards a Materials Science and Engineering based degree.
+ Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills with the ability to use your own initiative.
+ Ability to investigate and interpret data using applications such as Excel.
+ Excellent communication and time management skills with a desire to learn
**Working at Cummins**
At Cummins, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, regardless of race, gender, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity, and/or expression, or any other status protected by law. As a disability confident employer, we strive to make our recruitment process as accessible as possible. If you require any reasonable adjustments to accommodate a health condition or disability, please let us know. Your journey with us matters!
CLOSING DATE: Wednesday 12 th November 2025
**Job** Engineering
**Organization** Cummins Inc.
**Role Category** Hybrid
**Job Type** Student - Cooperative/12 Month Placement
**ReqID**
**Relocation Package** No