Location: Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, University of Manchester
To be considered for an interview, please make sure your application is full in line with the job specs as found below.
Type: Full-time, laboratory-based
Salary: £25-35k
About the Role
Concretene is advancing low-carbon concrete technologies through cutting-edge nanomaterial integration. We’re seeking a Formulation Scientist to lead the development, optimisation and scale-up of next-generation admixture systems incorporating advanced materials. Based at the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC), this role is ideal for a technically skilled, hands-on formulation chemist eager to innovate in sustainable construction materials.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and optimise formulations for graphene-enhanced concrete admixtures, ensuring dispersion quality and product stability.
* Improve existing formulations through iterative R&D and targeted performance enhancements.
* Support scale-up from bench to pilot and production scale, collaborating with manufacturing teams.
* Maintain clear technical records and contribute to internal reports, presentations, and product data sheets.
* Liaise with multidisciplinary project teams, technical partners, and commercial stakeholders.
Essential Requirements
* PhD or equivalent industrial experience in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
* Minimum 3 years’ experience in concrete admixture or chemical formulation development, preferably including water-reducers, superplasticisers, or other performance-enhancing additives.
* Strong laboratory skills, with experience in material formulation, process development, and testing.
* Familiarity with nanomaterials and their incorporation into chemical systems.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical findings clearly.
* Strong organisational, documentation and time-management abilities.
Desirable Skills
* Experience in scale-up of formulations from lab to commercial production.
* Knowledge of admixture production processes and quality control practices.
* Prior experience collaborating with industry partners or R&D consortia.
* Awareness of low-carbon construction technologies and material sustainability.
What We Offer
Cutting-Edge Innovation
* Work at the forefront of materials science, contributing to world-first applications of graphene-enhanced concrete.
* Collaborate with leading researchers and engineers at the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC) and The University of Manchester.
Purpose-Driven Impact
* Be part of a mission to decarbonise the construction industry and tackle climate change through real-world innovation.
* Contribute to projects that have global significance in sustainable infrastructure.
Learning & Development
* Access to training, workshops and mentoring to support your technical and professional growth.
Collaborative Culture
* Join a diverse, inclusive and multidisciplinary team that values curiosity, creativity and open communication.
* Participate in team-building activities and knowledge-sharing sessions.
Career Progression
* Clear pathways for advancement within the lab and across research, engineering and project management roles.
* Support for further education or professional certification in materials science, civil engineering or sustainability.
Recognition & Contribution
* Your ideas and input will be valued - whether you're improving a process, solving a technical challenge, or shaping the future of sustainable construction.