Overview Associate Principal Scientist Material Sciences role at RSSL. Based in Reading, UK. RSSL provides scientific analysis, research, consultancy and training for the food, pharmaceutical and consumer goods industries. Mondelēz International is the parent company. RSSL is dedicated to delivering world-class scientific solutions and outstanding customer service.
Recognised for excellence, RSSL was awarded CRO of the Year at the 2023 OBN Awards, in addition to other accolades.
Purpose This role will provide expert technical guidance in the area of physical sciences to support Mondelēz/RSSL’s business objectives. It requires evaluation of emerging technologies to drive new or improved service offerings (e.g., manufacturing processes, NPD, analytical methodology) and providing expert scientific consultancy. Responsibilities include complex analytical investigative projects, keeping abreast of scientific developments in the physical sciences area and representing the business externally, e.g. at relevant scientific symposia and expert working groups.
In-depth scientific understanding and practical experience in rheology, texture and thermal analysis are required, with additional working knowledge of particle size analysis and low-resolution NMR. Complex data interpretation and presentation to stakeholders will also be undertaken.
The position holder will be a member of the RSSL team and primarily based in Reading, UK. Some travel may be required within the UK or overseas. This role is a key contributor to the ongoing financial, operational and analytical success of the businesses.
Responsibilities Functional/Technical
Provide expert consultancy both internally and externally. Actively guide a portfolio of analytical techniques globally to ensure delivery of world‑class material sciences capabilities. Significantly impact the direction of work done by others in the area of expertise. Be a “point person” for rheology, texture and thermal analysis at Reading. Liaise across the business to undertake a range of specialist projects. Guide complex analysis and interpretation of data for both standard and emergency analysis. Ensure timely delivery of high‑quality data against project timelines. Independently propose solutions to time conflicts. Liaise with line management, business development managers and clients to ensure effective communication of incoming requests as well as results and actionable next steps. Work with clients to help solve problems. Upskill others in the team to deliver complex projects in area of expertise.
Leadership, Communication & Influence
Strong influencing, networking and stakeholder management. Provide expert advice and lead client and stakeholder meetings as required. Make an authoritative scientific contribution to business strategy, research and analysis. Deliver presentations of data and strategy to senior technical stakeholders (e.g., directors, vice‑presidents). Present complex scientific data as dictated by business needs at RSSL, at clients’ facilities, or at external meetings/seminars to raise your profile and RSSL’s reputation. Represent and exert influence on behalf of RSSL/Mondelēz through involvement in external scientific institutions, government bodies and industry committees. Closely monitor scientific developments within the field through external involvement and committees. Evaluate emerging scientific and sustainability trends and make recommendations to ensure Mondelēz / RSSL remain at the forefront.
Quality, Environment, Health & Safety
Work to the highest standards of safety and quality by ensuring COSHHs, risk assessments and SOPs are understood and followed. Proactively identify and resolve quality issues in the area of expertise. Complete quality actions on time, including review and approval. Provide technical regulatory leadership in client audits. Promote a clean, tidy and safe working environment. Understand and work to GMP and UKAS requirements. Ensure training records are accurate.
Knowledge, Skills, Experience and Language Requirements
Degree or PhD in a relevant scientific discipline or equivalent laboratory experience. Proven track record (10+ years) of relevant laboratory experience and developing methods in rheology/texture/thermal analysis. In-depth knowledge of the technical area of expertise and regulatory requirements. Good knowledge of laboratory quality and accreditation systems (GMP/UKAS). Strong written and spoken communication skills with the ability to influence, network and manage internal/external relationships. Excellent organisational skills including time management and priority setting. Ability to deliver projects within tight timescales and to mentor junior scientific staff. Technical credibility to develop good working relationships with internal and external clients; ability to solve complex analytical problems. High levels of business acumen with ability to interpret, deliver and create new business opportunities. Proven experience of strategic planning and delivery. Computer literacy in standard MS Office applications. Visionary leadership with evidence of inspiring a team to deliver excellence in projects. Recognised specialist through fellowship or membership of a relevant professional body, or published work in relevant journals. Demonstrated track record of applying knowledge across different business areas. Experience in authoring technical reports and presenting findings at relevant symposia. Career evidence of publication and success in report delivery. Experience of working for or with a CRO. English fluency (written and spoken).
Benefits Opportunities to learn and develop. Performance-related Bonus scheme. Contributory pension (8%–11% employer contribution). Life assurance. Private Medical (Self). 27 days holiday allowance (plus up to 5 extra days) + bank holidays. Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). A flexible benefits programme (gym discounts, private health insurance, restaurant discounts, etc.).
No relocation support available.
About RSSL Reading Scientific Services Ltd (RSSL) is a contract research organisation (CRO) providing research, analysis and consultancy to the food, consumer goods and life sciences sectors, serving clients from across 70 countries. Our team is committed to transforming lives through science, innovation and collaboration.
Equal Opportunity
RSSL is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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