Job Description

Nium is a UK-based climate tech company, founded in 2022 with a clear and ambitious mission: to eliminate emissions at scale by disrupting the global ammonia production market.

Ammonia is one of the world's most essential chemicals, supporting approximately 50% of global food production as fertiliser. However, its conventional production process is a significant climate challenge, accounting for around 1.3% of global CO? emissions and 2% of the world's energy use.

We employ nanotechnology and advanced engineering to produce clean ammonia, unlocking its potential as a zero-carbon fuel for the future. Our goal is specific and bold: by producing 2 million tonnes of clean ammonia by 2032, we will have avoided 10 million tonnes of CO? emissions. To achieve this, we are looking for mission-driven, talented people to help us accelerate our progress.

Role

As our Senior Scientist, you will be a key strategic driver for our catalyst development program. You will be responsible for designing a programme of high-impact experiments and translating complex data into actionable insights that drive our technology forward. This is a pivotal role where your scientific rigour, creativity, and collaborative mindset will directly influence our product's performance and our commercial success. You will work closely with our CSO and our engineering team to bridge the gap between fundamental research and pilot-scale deployment, while also supervising and mentoring junior staff.

What You Will Do (Key Responsibilities)

Design High-Impact Experiments:

Design, plan, and oversee statistically robust experimental campaigns (e.g., using Design of Experiments - DoE) to test catalyst performance, stability, and manufacturability.

Lead Data Analysis & Automation:

Lead the analysis and interpretation of complex experimental data, developing automated processing scripts (e.g., in Python) to accelerate the R&D cycle.

Drive R&D Strategy:

Collaborate closely with the CSO on R&D strategy and with the Engineering team to ensure catalyst development aligns with the requirements of our pilot-scale process.

Guide Digital Catalyst Optimisation:

Provide experimental context and validation for our computational partners, helping to inform and steer DFT simulations and ML models for accelerated catalyst discovery.

Mentor & Guide:

Mentor and guide junior R&D staff, providing clear experimental plans, overseeing their work, and fostering their professional development.

Communicate for Impact:

Translate and communicate scientific findings and their commercial implications to the wider team, including non-scientists and leadership.

Innovate:

Stay at the forefront of developments in catalysis and ammonia synthesis, proposing innovative new materials and process ideas to maintain our competitive edge.

What You Will Bring (The Ideal Candidate)

Expert-level knowledge in a relevant field (e.g., Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Physics, Chemistry), typically demonstrated through a PhD or through extensive, high-impact industrial R&D experience. A significant track record of R&D success, for example, through relevant post-doctoral research or senior industrial roles, demonstrating *deep expertise in heterogeneous catalysis and reaction engineering.
Demonstrable experience in designing experiments and analysing complex datasets. Proficiency in a data analysis language, with a strong preference for Python. A commercially aware, product-focused mindset with a clear understanding of how fundamental R&D drives business value. An excellent communicator and collaborator, capable of bridging the gap between science and engineering. A natural mentor who enjoys developing and supporting junior team members.

Highly Desirable:

Deep expertise in materials characterisation techniques (e.g., electron microscopy, spectroscopy) and a proven ability to correlate catalyst structure with functional performance. Hands-on experience with flow reactors, PVD, or high-pressure systems. Experience in applying insights from computational chemistry (DFT/ML) to guide experimental work. A proven track record of innovation, demonstrated through a strong publication record, patents, or by leading projects that resulted in significant technical or commercial success. Experience working in a fast-paced start-up environment.

What We Offer & Our Culture

This isn't a predictable corporate role. We offer the chance to do meaningful work that has a direct impact on our mission and the planet. You will be given real responsibility, the autonomy to solve challenging problems, and the opportunity to grow with a company at a critical stage of its journey.

In addition to a competitive salary and meaningful equity, we provide everything you need to succeed and thrive:

Professional Development:

A 1,000 annual budget for your professional growth.

Financial Wellbeing:

A generous pension scheme with up to 8% matched contributions.

Work-Life Balance:

Hybrid and flexible working arrangements to suit your needs.

Excellent Facilities:

Access to cutting-edge equipment in our purpose-built labs and R&D centre at Milton Park.

Tools for Success:

A new laptop and any other hardware you require.

Supportive Environment:

Compassionate and encouraging managers and a team dedicated to helping you do the most rewarding work of your life.
We are committed to building an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. We hire for "cultural add," not "cultural fit," because we believe diversity of thought and healthy debate are essential for a disruptive business.

Ultimately, our focus is locked on the mission. We believe that tackling the climate crisis requires bringing together talented people from every background to work alongside each other for a better tomorrow.

How to apply:

Please complete this form uploading your CV and brief cover letter -

https://forms.gle/NHo3raKG8XPP14cT8

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 47,200.00-59,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Flexitime On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

How many years have you worked in heterogeneous catalysis?
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: SRS