Location: Southampton, United Kingdom
Working Hours: Mon-Fri, 37.5 hours per week
Scope
Analytical Scientist role is responsible for development and qualification of new test methods and testing of raw materials and lens product as required by the CooperVision business units to ensure continued business production. Involvement in investigational and validation procedures enables the organisation to implement new products and continuously improve. Work in cross‑functional teams on material and process characterization and improvement activities.
Job Summary – What to Expect
The Material Science Team within the Global Technical Innovation Group (GTIG) consists of Chemists and Analytical Scientists mastering the science of our materials and their associated interactions and providing expert services to sustain and improve performance as well as supporting the growth of the business by qualifying new material sources and supporting suppliers with scale‑up projects.
This permanent position involves characterization, development, and quality evaluation of materials and products within our laboratory. Strong expertise in liquid chromatography (LC) and gas chromatography (GC) is required, with hands‑on experience in LC‑MS and GC‑MS being essential. The role will design and perform analytical experiments, develop and validate methods, interpret complex data sets, and prepare clear technical reports. Knowledge of complementary techniques such as DSC, FTIR, and UV‑Vis spectroscopy is highly desirable.
Requirements include strong problem‑solving abilities, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to laboratory work. The candidate will collaborate with cross‑functional teams, contribute to troubleshooting initiatives, and help ensure the integrity and reliability of analytical results that support key scientific and business objectives.
Essential Functions & Accountabilities
* Analysis of raw materials and lenses and generating documentation following laboratory practices and procedures.
* Reporting results to customers after peer review in a timely manner and using the required reporting formats.
* Develop and validate HPLC and GC analytical methods to applicable standards (e.g., FDA, ICH, ISO17025 or GLP).
* Identify and develop new methods for the characterization of chemicals and materials, including the qualification of the methods.
* Design, develop, and implement effective experimental strategies; execute experiments with minimal supervision and troubleshoot when problems arise.
* Analyze data using statistical techniques, write technical reports, and create presentations.
* Keep others informed on project progress and issues.
* Stay informed and educated with technological advances to assist with product development.
* Support analytical projects within the Material Science team and across CooperVision.
* Provide training on instrumentation and analytical techniques.
* Participate in laboratory investigations following local documentation and maintain records of investigations ensuring these are relevant and timely.
* Receipt, logging and storage of samples following laboratory procedures.
* Maintain a safe and clean working environment adhering to all health and safety procedures.
* Perform all required daily checks and calibrations on instrumentation when required and used.
* Maintain all lab instruments so they are kept in a state of “ready to use” and report incidents and faults as required.
* Maintain training records in Agile, ensuring that all documents required for their job roles are kept up to date.
* Follow the guidelines in the laboratory practice SOP and associated Work Instructions for all data recording.
Travel Requirements
May involve some travel to other CooperVision sites within the UK (≈2 %) and to CooperVision sites outside the UK (≈5 %). Training travel within the UK may also be required (≈2 %).
Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
* Expert knowledge of HPLC and/or GC method development (including Mass Spectrometry) and validation to applicable standards such as FDA, ICH, ISO17025 or GLP.
* Knowledge and understanding of ISO‑10993 Part 12 and 18.
* Experience with GC‑MS and/or LC‑MS preferred/essential.
* Ability to read and understand highly technical material.
* Technical report writing experience.
* Knowledge of silicone chemistry/methacrylate monomers.
* Data analysis and presentation.
* Knowledge of basic statistical techniques.
* Effective teamwork skills.
* Highly organized: proven ability to manage workload effectively and plan accordingly.
* Self‑directed: ability to work independently on multiple, often conflicting priorities.
* Excellent communication skills.
* Ability to meet strict deadlines and work under pressure.
* Flexibility in accepting work assignments as required by the needs of the business.
* Intermediate skill in the use of Excel, Word and PowerPoint; advanced preferred.
Work Environment
* Laboratory and office based (primarily at South Point 1 but covering all CooperVision sites as required).
* Exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
* Prolonged sitting in front of a computer.
Experience
* Minimum of 0–3 years’ experience depending on degree level.
Education
* Bachelor of Science degree with minimum 3 years’ experience in Chemistry or related field.
* Master of Science degree with minimum 2 years’ experience in Chemistry, or related field.
* Ph.D. in Chemistry, or related field of study, with no additional experience required.
What We Offer
Competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package including 25 days holiday, pension scheme, healthcare cover, life assurance, and access to the Wellness Platform. Additional benefits include a discounted contact lens scheme and access to LinkedIn Learning for professional development.
All suitably qualified applicants will receive equal consideration and opportunities from CooperVision.
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