Scientific Research & Development Graduate Jobs

This laboratory-based role involves performing scientific analysis on food textures and flows using advanced instrumentation to support client projects, research, and quality procedures.Consulting Technology​Supporting food manufacturers and retailers with product innovation including: rheology, new product development, value optimisation, instructional development, pilot plant, quality and food safety manufacturing, thermal processing, new technologies, and regulatory affairs.Food & Drink Science TeamThe Food and Drink Science Team look at the rheological properties of food materials to determine the texture as well as how they behave physically when subjected to physical forces and forced to flow. The rheological properties of raw materials, intermediate products such as batters and doughs as well as final products can be studied.This role will primarily play a support function for the Senior Scientist in the team where you will be running various laboratory based analysis using instruments such as  X-ray micro-CT, rheometer, texture analyser, DSC, viscosity meter. What you’ll be doingManage and undertake work on behalf of clients.Perform tasks related to quality procedures such as equipment calibration and reviews of documents.Write reports for contract and research projects.Identify new business opportunities.Contribute to idea generation for food and beverage science and research.Assisting on delivery of training courses. What we’re looking forA degree in food science, chemistry, physics, forensic science, chemical engineering, material science or similar.Experience of working within an laboratory environment (preferrable).Communication skills and a keen attitude to learn/develop.Experience in data analysis from the above and familiarity with statistical analysis techniques. (advantageous).What we offerReward platform with employee discounts and rewards25 days holiday + 8 bank holidaysBuy and sell holiday schemeA generous work save pension scheme, with employee contributions matched by the company up to 10%Culture focus around work/life balance (early finish Fridays)Subsidised onsite restaurantWhat you need to knowPlease note due to our rural location you must be able to drive and have your own transport. The successful candidate must, by the start of their employment, have permission to work in the UK.

Posted 16 days ago

This role combines scientific consultancy, research, and technical project management to help food manufacturers develop, validate, and optimize thermal processes such as pasteurisation and sterilisation on a global scale.Consulting Technology​Supporting food manufacturers and retailers with product innovation including: rheology, new product development, value optimisation, instructional development, pilot plant, quality and food safety manufacturing, thermal processing, new technologies, and regulatory affairs.Thermal ProcessingOur Processing Innovation Team supports our members and clients with consultancy, project work and training activities in the thermal processing area, including process development, validation and optimisation. This encompasses heating (e.g. cooking, pasteurisation and sterilisation) and cooling (chilling and freezing) processes.Due to the work they do there's an exciting travel element to this role- UK, Europe and Globally! Expenses paid work trips across the globe, recent trips include- Turkey, Iceland, Jamacia, South Africa, Italy and Spain.You will be working in a range of different food & drink manufacturing sectors, growing your skills and knowledge!The work of the Group is firmly rooted in the application of sound science and engineering principles to the solution of food industry problems. The route to delivering this is through a blend of longer-term research activities and short-term contract support for companies.  In addition, there is a significant training and knowledge transfer activity aimed at facilitating the application of best practice within the food manufacturing sector.The Group has facilities for traditional thermal processing (including heating and cooling operations), as well as a selection of more innovative technologies, supporting areas such as product development and food packaging.What you’ll be doingTo manage and deliver scientific and technical projects for our thermal processing clients, with focus on the validation of thermal processes. The job will involve a blend of consultancy, training, and research activities, as part of a close-knit team. A part of this role will be the ability to develop process validation and engineering services to our clients.What we’re looking forA graduate in a relevant scientific subject- Food Technology or Chemical EngineeringGood verbal and written communication skills to support business development.Demonstratable skills in report writing and data analysis.Effective time management skills relating to effective delivery and business practices.Full UK/EU driving licence and status to travel freely worldwideA keen interest in the food industry, ideally across multiple food sectors, including heat preserved foods and chilled/frozen sectors. Any experience in these sectors would be desirable, but not essentialSome background understanding around the thermal processing of foods in industryBasic project management skills from recent experienceWhat we offerReward platform with employee discounts and rewards25 days holiday + 8 bank holidaysBuy and sell holiday schemeA generous work save pension scheme, with employee contributions matched by the company up to 10%Culture focus around work/life balance (early finish Fridays)Subsidised onsite restaurant

Posted 16 days ago

iGii is offering a three-year Graduate Apprenticeship in Data Engineering where apprentices will build data pipelines, analytics dashboards, and scalable digital infrastructure while earning a fully funded Data Science degree through Heriot-Watt University.iGii is looking for a Graduate Apprentice in Data Engineering to join their rapidly expanding Data & Digital Infrastructure team. This role will be focused on strengthening our data foundations to accelerate data‑led decision making across the business. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a high-growth environment with a fast-paced and collaborative culture where you will work with some fantastic customers conducting research at the forefront of science and technology, while completing a fully funded Data Science degree through a Graduate Apprenticeship with Heriot‑Watt University. Your purpose in the Role:As a Graduate Apprentice, you will combine paid work at iGii with academic study, spending approximately 80% of your time in the workplace and 20% at university. Your learning will be continuously applied to real business challenges, supporting the development of modern, scalable data and digital infrastructure. This role plays a critical part in reinforcing our data engineering and analytics capability, allowing you to develop strong technical foundations across data pipelines, data quality, and visualisation, whilst working towards a BSc (Hons) in Data Science.From the outset, your working pattern will typically be four days per week on‑site at our facility in Stirling, and one day per week at Heriot‑Watt University, for a three-year period. What you will do and how you will succeed:You will succeed in this role by being curious, methodical, and proactive, taking ownership of data foundations and enabling others to make better, faster decisions through high‑quality data. Your responsibilities will include:Data engineering and infrastructureBuild, maintain, and improve data pipelines that support reliable and timely access to dataSupport the ingestion, transformation, and storage of data from multiple sourcesHelp ensure data structures are scalable, resilient, and well documentedData quality and monitoringContribute to the implementation of modern approaches to data quality monitoringSupport data integrity, validation, and consistency across systemsAssist in developing metrics and monitoring approaches to ensure confidence in data outputsAnalytics and visualisationDevelop dashboards and visualisations to support operational, scientific, and manufacturing decision makingWork closely with stakeholders across R&D, Operations, Manufacturing, Sales and Finance to understand data needsEnable self‑service access to trusted data wherever appropriateSupporting data‑led problem solvingEnable teams to adopt data‑led approaches through better tools, data availability, and insightsCollaborate closely with the Data Scientist and wider teams to free up capacity for advanced data science initiativesProfessional and academic developmentComplete all coursework, assessments, and learning required for the Data Science Graduate ApprenticeshipContinuously build technical capability across data, analytics, and digital toolsApply learning directly to live business challengesWho we are looking for:We are looking for a Graduate Apprentice who is curious, analytical and motivated to build a career in data while studying towards a university degree. This role would suit someone who:Has a genuine interest in data, technology and problem‑solving, and wants to understand how data can be used to inform decision‑making in a commercial settingEnjoys working with detail, patterns and systems, while also being able to step back and understand the wider business contextIs comfortable learning new tools, technologies and ways of working, and can apply that learning in practiceCommunicates clearly and effectively, both in writing and verbally, and can adapt their communication style to different audiencesTakes ownership of their development, demonstrating a growth mindset and openness to feedbackCan balance the demands of work‑based learning alongside academic studyIs organised, reliable and able to manage multiple priorities with appropriate support You must also meet the entry requirements for the Graduate Apprenticeship programme and be able to provide evidence of qualifications where required. Please note that for 2026 Heriot Watt are only offering entry into Year 2 of the programme and you must therefore meet the following criteria: SQA Advanced Highers at BBB including Mathematics, plus Computing or similar and excellent SQA Highers or Scottish Baccalaureate​A-Levels at ABB including Mathematics, plus Computing or similar​SQA HND in a computing/engineering discipline (or a relevant Modern Apprenticeship) with Engineering Mathematics 1, 2 & 3 (or equivalent)​A combination of qualifications totalling 96 SCQF credits at level 7Desirable: experience with Python within a data analysis/processing context What we offerThis role is offered as a three-year fixed-term paid role combined with a fully funded Graduate Apprenticeship degree. In practice this looks like:The opportunity to earn a BSc (Hons) while gaining meaningful, real‑world experienceA structured balance of on‑the‑job learning (approximately 80%) and university study (approximately 20%)Dedicated support from experienced colleagues, alongside exposure to a professional, collaborative working environmentThe chance to develop high‑demand technical and analytical skills that are directly applicable in the workplaceWorking in a supportive culture that encourages learning, curiosity and continuous improvementStrong foundations for future progression into data, analytics or technology‑focused roles on completion of the programme In addition to a competitive salary and 33 days of annual leave (including statutory holidays) we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and professional growth. This includes:Private medical insuranceGroup life insuranceIncome protectionAccess to mental wellbeing resources and support, including up to six coaching or counselling sessions per year through our wellbeing partner, OlivaTraining and development opportunities to help grow your careerFreedom to arrange your schedule around our core working hours, designed to help you perform at your best. We take great pride in being a social and collaborative organisation. We meet regularly as a Company and as teams, sharing ideas over breakfast or lunch, celebrating achievements, and recognising milestones at a team and individual level. We are scaling up rapidly and value our culture, you will shape the company’s future innovation capabilities through your ideas and skillset. Join us now and make your mark on both your career and our growth journey.  Where we areWe are based in Stirling in central Scotland, a city with rich historical significance. As well as being historic, Stirling is in a great position for quick access to Edinburgh and Glasgow by public transport. It also has easy to access to the Highlands and rural Scotland. Apply because you want to:Work with a diverse, international team on a challenge that will positively impact the world.Join a mission-driven company that’s focused on delivering far better and more sustainable productsJoin a high growth company and put some big wins on your CV wherever you are in your career.Surround yourself with very smart, open, curious, and action-oriented people with opportunities to learn at every turn. What happens next?We have a range of customers from a variety of backgrounds, industries and locations. Therefore, we are searching for a diverse group of talented individuals who are passionate about what they do to collaborate and produce the best possible work for our consumers.

Posted 17 days ago

A graduate Scientist 1 role at Illumina focused on supporting genomic reagent research and development through laboratory experiments, data analysis, and collaboration in a biotechnology R&D environment.What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.As Scientist 1 here at Illumina in Cambridge, you will join our Reagent Science division, supporting the development of innovative reagents for Illumina’s sequencing platforms.This is an ideal first role for a graduate looking to begin their scientific career in a collaborative R&D environment.You will work alongside experienced scientists to learn and apply biochemical and biophysical techniques that characterise enzymes and inform the creation of high‑performance sequencing reagents. You will be part of a supportive team environment that embodies our Win Together value while enabling you to grow your technical and analytical skills.Why youYou will be a recent Bachelor’s or Master’s graduate in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biophysics, Protein Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Biology or a related field.You will bring curiosity, good communication skills, and a willingness to learn new laboratory techniques.Experience with enzymology, chromatography, binding assays, or biophysical tools is helpful but not essential.You will thrive in a fast‑paced environment by taking ownership of your work, staying organised, and contributing positively to a collaborative team.Key Responsibilities Include:Collaborating with scientists across disciplines to support reagent developmentSupporting experiments to characterise enzymes, reagents, and formulationsOperating laboratory equipment including plate readers, sequencers, and liquid-handling roboticsAnalysing experimental data and identifying trendsDocumenting work accurately and presenting findings to project teamsManaging tasks within agreed timelinesTroubleshooting laboratory equipment and supporting experimental problem-solvingYour next opportunity to win together and help drive our mission forward starts here—apply now.What you can expectOur team members are bright, energetic, and dedicated - they are the driving force behind our innovation and impact. To attract the best and brightest, we offer a competitive employee benefits program. We view it as a smart investment in our people, one that recognises the tremendous value they bring to our business every day. At Illumina, we push boundaries. We think beyond the conventional. We dream big. With the energy of so many bright and accomplished people, the opportunities are endless.INDEURWe are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process.The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Posted 23 days ago

A Battery Science & Innovation Intern role at TaiSan supporting R&D in advanced battery materials, testing, and analysis within a deep-tech climate startup.About the RoleTaiSan is developing next-generation polymer electrolyte systems to enable Sodium Batteries 2.0 — targeting higher energy density, improved safety, and scalable manufacturing.We are looking for a Battery Science & Innovation Intern to support our R&D activities across materials research, cell development, analytics, modelling, and strategic technical initiatives. This internship provides hands-on exposure to advanced battery research within a fast-paced deep-tech startup environment.The scope of the internship will be shaped based on the candidate’s academic background, technical skills, and development goals. The final responsibilities will be confirmed with the Line Manager following evaluation of the candidate’s profile.You will work closely with the technical team and leadership to support experimental, analytical, modelling, or research-driven activities that directly contribute to TaiSan’s technology roadmap.Key ResponsibilitiesDepending on background and expertise, responsibilities may include:1. Battery Research & Literature AnalysisReview and summarize scientific literature across electrolytes, polymers, electrodes, degradation, and cell architectures.Support structured literature database development.Assist in benchmarking next-generation battery materials and concepts.Contribute to structured research notes and internal technical documentation.Support preparation of technical summaries for internal or external use.2. Cell Building & Experimental Support (Engineering Track)Assist in coin-cell or pouch-cell assembly under supervision.Support electrolyte preparation and materials handling.Conduct basic electrochemical testing (cycling, EIS, rate capability).Collect, clean, and organize experimental data.Assist in lab documentation and experimental record keeping.Support safety and quality control procedures.3. Analytics & Data ProcessingAnalyze experimental datasets using OriginLab, Python, Excel, or equivalent tools.Generate plots, reports, and structured summaries of results.Support degradation analysis and performance benchmarking.Assist in identifying trends across experimental runs.Contribute to data organization systems for structured R&D tracking.4. Modelling & Computational Support (if applicable)Support modelling activities (e.g., electrochemical modelling, COMSOL simulations, materials screening).Assist in parameter collection from literature.Help validate simulation assumptions against experimental conditions.Contribute to structured documentation of modelling inputs and outputs.Support exploratory AI-driven materials analysis initiatives.5. Innovation & Non-Engineering ActivitiesAssist with technical slide preparation for internal meetings.Support Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data collection and sustainability benchmarking.Contribute to cost modeling exercises.Assist in drafting structured technical summaries.Support preparation of technical content for investor materials.Participate in brainstorming sessions and structured innovation workshops.Learning OutcomesInterns will gain exposure to:Advanced sodium battery research and polymer electrolyte systemsLab-scale cell development and testingTechnical analytics and data-driven R&D processesInnovation strategy in deep-tech startupsStructured scientific documentation and research rigorCross-functional collaboration between science, engineering, and strategyRequirementsCurrently pursuing or recently completed BSc, MSc, or PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Data Science, or related field.Strong analytical thinking and structured approach to problem-solving.High attention to detail and documentation accuracy.Ability to work independently while communicating clearly with the team.Interest in battery technologies and energy storage innovation.Preferred (depending on track)Experience in battery labs or electrochemistry.Familiarity with polymers or electrolyte systems.Experience with data analysis tools (Python, OriginLab, MATLAB, Excel).Exposure to modelling tools (COMSOL or similar).Interest in sustainability, LCA, or cost modelling.Comfortable working in an early-stage, high-ownership startup environment.Role Flexibility & AlignmentThe exact scope of the internship will be defined based on the candidate’s academic background, technical strengths, and career objectives.The final role structure and responsibilities will be confirmed with the Line Manager following review of the candidate’s profile to ensure strong alignment with both TaiSan’s R&D priorities and the intern’s development goals.

Posted 25 days ago

A Business & Strategy Intern role at TaiSan supporting financial modelling, market analysis, and growth strategy in a deep-tech climate startup developing next-generation battery technology.About the RoleTaiSan is developing next-generation polymer electrolyte systems to enable Sodium Batteries 2.0 — targeting higher energy density, improved safety, and scalable manufacturing.We are seeking a Business & Strategy Intern to support our commercial, financial, operational, and market development activities. This role is ideal for candidates interested in working at the intersection of deep-tech innovation and business strategy within an early-stage climate-tech startup.You will work closely with the leadership team to help structure financial models, support investor engagement, analyze markets, and contribute to business growth initiatives.The scope of the internship will be tailored based on the candidate’s academic background, experience, and career objectives. Final responsibilities will be confirmed with the Line Manager following evaluation of the candidate’s profile to ensure strong alignment.Key ResponsibilitiesDepending on background and expertise, responsibilities may include:1. Finance & Financial ModellingSupport development and refinement of financial models (CAPEX, OPEX, unit economics).Assist with cost modeling for battery materials and manufacturing pathways.Conduct scenario analysis for scaling strategies.Support budgeting and financial forecasting exercises.Prepare structured financial summaries for internal decision-making.Assist in grant budgeting and reporting documentation.2. Business Strategy & OperationsSupport strategic roadmap planning and milestone tracking.Conduct competitive benchmarking and industry analysis.Assist in defining go-to-market strategies for Gen 1–3 systems.Support partnership mapping across suppliers, manufacturers, and customers.Contribute to internal process optimization and operational documentation.Help structure KPIs and performance tracking dashboards.3. Market Research & Commercial AnalysisAnalyze battery market trends (sodium-ion, lithium-ion, grid storage, EV, etc.).Identify target customer segments and use cases.Conduct pricing and positioning analysis.Support customer discovery and stakeholder mapping.Prepare structured reports summarizing commercial insights.4. Marketing & CommunicationsAssist in preparation of investor decks and strategic presentations.Support website content, technical-to-commercial translation, and messaging.Contribute to LinkedIn and thought-leadership content (if applicable).Help develop branding materials aligned with deep-tech positioning.Support event preparation and conference participation materials.5. Business Development & PartnershipsIdentify and map potential strategic partners.Assist in outreach preparation and meeting briefing documents.Conduct due diligence research on potential collaborators.Support preparation of NDAs, summaries, and structured follow-up documentation.Contribute to grant applications and funding opportunity scouting.Learning OutcomesInterns will gain exposure to:Commercialization of advanced battery technologiesFinancial modelling in a deep-tech startupInvestor communications and fundraising strategyMarket positioning in climate-tech and energy storageStrategic planning in early-stage innovation environmentsCross-functional collaboration with scientific and technical teamsRequirementsRequiredCurrently pursuing or recently completed degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Management, Marketing, or related field.Strong analytical and structured thinking skills.High attention to detail and ability to work with data.Excellent written and verbal communication skills.Interest in climate-tech, energy storage, or advanced materials innovation.Comfortable working in a fast-paced, early-stage startup environment.PreferredExperience with financial modelling (Excel or equivalent).Prior internship in consulting, VC, startups, or finance.Familiarity with market research methodologies.Experience preparing presentations for senior stakeholders.Strong organizational and project management skills.Role Flexibility & AlignmentThe internship scope will be customized depending on the candidate’s strengths — whether finance-focused, strategy-oriented, marketing-driven, or business development aligned.The final responsibilities and reporting structure will be confirmed with the Line Manager following assessment of the candidate’s background to ensure optimal alignment with both TaiSan’s strategic priorities and the intern’s professional development goals.

Posted 25 days ago

An internship role at Kew focused on supporting plant science, conservation, and research efforts while gaining professional development and experience.The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi. The salary for this position is £25,579 per annum [Intern Band]Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

Posted 29 days ago

An entry-level archives/records management role at Kew focused on supporting archival work while gaining training and developing a career in plant science and conservation.The ideal candidate will have a degree and must not be already professionally qualified in Archives and/or Records Management. They will have some, but not significant, experience of working in an archive or records management service, either in a voluntary or paid capacity. Full training will be provided for all tasks. The candidate should show an interest in the sector and an intention to pursue a career in this field.  Our ideal candidate will enjoy working in a team, as well as independently, and they will be able to plan and prioritise their diverse workload. Additionally, they will have good communication and customer skills and be committed to inclusive archive practice.  The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi. The salary for this position is £29,692 per annum [Band B]Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.

Posted 29 days ago