Job Description

NPL is seeking an experienced Higher Scientist based in Teddington to plan and deliver a number of technical activities to take our research to the next level. This full-time Research Scientist job comes with a generous salary and benefits package.



As a Higher Scientist, you'll be expected to acquire new knowledge to find solutions to advance our research. Also, if commercial opportunities arise from your work, you'll need to flag these - as this is how new products and services are born. At NPL, we learn from each other, respect each other, and work together to do better for ourselves and our customers.



Your primary responsibilities will include:


Sharing your learnings so that we all benefit and mentoring those with less experience than you

Developing partnerships to strengthen our capability

Acting as an ambassador for our work externally and being willing to promote what we do

Providing technical support for any bids, we may be undertaking


We are looking to recruit a researcher with polymer science background, with a passion for sustainable materials and measurement science. Experience in polymeric (nano) material synthesis and characterisation is essential. Expertise in recyclable or (bio) degradable polymers would be highly desirable. Knowledge of measurement techniques including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier transform Infrared Spectroscopy would also be desirable. We are looking for candidates that can work independently as well as in a team and have a strong interest in experimental work.
To be successful in this Higher Scientist role, you should have a PhD degree relevant to polymer chemistry, with experience working in a laboratory environment or experience in an industrial research environment an advantage science-related degree and be an expert in your field. You should also be used to leading, planning, and delivering complex research projects from conception to fruition. Beyond that, we're looking for someone who'll thrive in an environment like ours.



If this full-time Higher Scientist job in Teddington sounds like the right fit for you, please apply today.



At NPL, we set the standards by which everything is measured. In doing so, the National Physical Laboratory is helping to combat issues on a global scale such as climate change, curing diseases, and the development of cutting-edge communications technology. Our role is to research, create and deliver the measurement infrastructure which underpins the UK's prosperity and quality of life across many fields of industry.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.


The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.



NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.



At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we're creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.



We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.



To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we're always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.