Cranleigh STEM are partnering exclusively with a mission-driven R&D organisation developing next-generation technologies for recovering high-value materials from complex industrial waste. Their work supports the shift toward circular resource use and sustainable materials processing.
This is a rare opportunity to join a small, highly technical research team in a hands-on experimental role, helping to shape a new extraction platform at the intersection of inorganic chemistry, sustainability and process innovation.
Senior R&D Scientist
Location: London (Zone 1–2)
Salary: £45,000 – £55,000 | Full-time, Permanent
The Role
You will design and run laboratory experiments focused on the extraction, separation and purification of metals from heterogeneous feedstocks. Responsibilities include:
Developing and executing solution-based extraction and separation experiments
Investigating leaching behaviour, speciation and process variables
Characterising materials using ICP-OES, XRD, SEM-EDX, XRF and related tools
Optimising conditions for improved yield, selectivity and purity
Producing clear technical documentation and sharing results across the team
Supporting SOP development, lab workflows and safety standards
Informally guiding 1–2 junior researchers
About You
Essential:
MSc or PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy or related discipline
Strong hands-on wet-chemistry or hydrometallurgical experience
Experience with metals, inorganic systems or complex waste feedstocks
Proficiency with ICP, XRD, XRF, SEM-EDX
Strong experimental design, troubleshooting and data interpretation skills
Excellent safety awareness and documentation practice
Desirable:
Experience with mixed-metal systems, E-waste, battery materials or mineral processing
Knowledge of ionic liquids, solvent extraction or alternative leaching approaches
Exposure to early-stage or evolving R&D environments
Why Apply?
Work on a novel extraction platform in an emerging clean-materials landscape
Solve complex chemistry challenges with real sustainability impact
Stay fully hands-on while operating at a senior level
High visibility and technical ownership in a growing, innovation-driven team
To learn more, apply within or reach out directly with your CV