Materials Scientist – PhD Level
Do not pass up this chance, apply quickly if your experience and skills match what is in the following description.
Salary: £35,000–£45,000 per annum
Location: 22 Aston Road, Waterlooville, PO77XJ, UK
Start Date: ASAP
To Apply: steve.driver@jivamaterials.com
Email Subject Line: Materials Scientist – PhD Application
About the Role
Jiva Materials is seeking a PhD-level Materials Scientist to join our mission of driving sustainability in the electronics industry. You will lead R&D projects focused on natural fibre composites, bio-resins, and functional coatings, collaborating across our R&D, production, and commercial teams.
This is a high-impact, hands-on role combining laboratory experimentation with industrial application. You will also represent Jiva at research collaborations, industry conferences, and sustainability forums worldwide.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead formulation and processing of natural fibre-based composites, resins, and coatings
* Conduct advanced materials characterisation (TGA, DSC, DMA, FTIR, SEM, mechanical testing)
* Collaborate with engineering and product teams to optimise performance and cost
* Design and execute experimental programs (e.g. DoEs, ageing studies, recyclability trials)
* Prepare technical documentation and data for scale-up and investor engagement
* Contribute to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001, and IPC-compliant process development
* Support academic partnerships and external R&D collaborations
* Uphold strict safety and lab documentation standards
Requirements
Essential
* PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Chemistry, or related field
* Minimum of 3 years’ research experience in composites, bio-resins, or sustainable materials
* Expertise in materials characterisation and experimental design
* Strong data analysis and scientific writing skills
* Experience bridging R&D and manufacturing environments
* Comfortable working in a fast-paced, mission-driven team
Desirable
* Experience with electronics materials or PCB substrates
* Familiarity with UL certification, ISO 14040/44, and IPC standards
* Published work in composites or sustainability topics
* Background in grant-funded R&D or academic–industry collaborations
Why Join Jiva?
* Contribute to transforming the electronics industry through circular innovation
* Work in a collaborative, hybrid environment with cutting-edge tools
* Represent Jiva at global tech and sustainability events
* Develop your career through clear goals, publishing opportunities, and innovation challenges
* Join a mission-driven team tackling real-world environmental challenges
To Apply
Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your materials expertise and interest in sustainability to:
steve.driver@jivamaterials.com
Use subject line: Materials Scientist – PhD Application