Research Scientist

Croda is a FTSE100 organisation where we truly believe our people are our difference and this, along with our values of Innovative, Responsible and Together, create ‘our Purpose, Smart science to improve lives’. With over 5,000 employees globally, we specialise in the research and development of innovative ingredients for the Life Science and Consumer Care markets.

We are focused on developing our inclusive culture through accountability, collaboration and innovation. By joining Croda, you will be part of a team who are using smart science to create a more sustainable future.

As we deliver our ambitious 2030 Growth Strategy, we’re looking for a Research Scientist to join our Research & Technology (Synthesis) team. Reporting to the R&T Manager, you will contribute to research and development projects involving the synthesis of surfactants, actives, and specialty chemicals for beauty care and life sciences applications.

Who We’re Looking For

• Recent Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry
• Proven experience in synthesis of surfactants, actives, or polymers, ideally within beauty care or life sciences
• Strong understanding of oleochemicals and specialty chemical synthesis
• Experience in handling analytical instruments (GC, HPLC, etc.) is preferred
• Familiarity with literature research tools, chemical screening, and data analysis software
• Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking skills
• Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams
• Adaptable and capable of managing changing priorities in a fast-paced R&D environment
• Creative, proactive, and results-driven mindset
  
  

What You’ll Be Doing

• Apply organic synthesis expertise to develop new and improved products aligned with market requirements.
• Conduct literature and patent searches (e.g., SciFinder, PatBase) to inform experimental design.
• Design, execute, and optimize organic synthesis reactions and processes.
• Analyze results and troubleshoot experimental challenges using data-driven approaches.
• Develop and propose next-stage experimental strategies.
• Collaborate with process development and commercial teams to plan and execute plant trials.
• Identify and recommend sustainable and scalable development routes.
• Manage and prioritize multiple R&D projects, ensuring timely delivery.
• Interpret analytical data (NMR, GC-MS, FTIR, HPLC) and maintain accurate technical documentation.
• Prepare and present technical reports, specifications, and findings.
• Ensure strict adherence to EHS policies, ISO standards, and audit requirements.
• Continuously enhance technical knowledge and contribute to innovation within the team.
  
  

What We Offer

Opportunity to work in a global, innovation-driven organisation.

A collaborative and inclusive culture that values diversity, sustainability, and continuous innovation.

The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary and benefits package including:

• Best-in-class medical benefits
• Private health insurance
• Employee share plans
• Generous parental leave
• Free on-site parking
  
  

Additional Information

This is a site based role.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the hiring process or experience any issues with our online application process, please email [email protected].

Why Croda?

At Croda, we believe our people are our difference. We are people-led, driven by the desire to do good and deliver value, a unifying principle shaped by all the great people that have travelled through Croda since our beginning in 1925. We pride ourselves on bringing together diverse teams and talents from across the globe and, guided by our values of Responsible, Innovative, and Together, we are passionate about building an inclusive, collaborative, and diverse organisation with innovation and customer focus underpinning all that we do.

Croda is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief.