Researcher – NMR and Analytical Chemistry

Job Purpose The Purity & Calibration Team develops reference methods and offers highly accurate calibration and measurement services. These efforts support LGC’s position as a National Measurement Laboratory (NML) and the UK’s official institute for chemical and bio-analytical measurements. Additionally, the team carries out contract research and development for customers across public and private sectors. We address both core and emerging measurement issues, promoting innovation and enhancing operational efficiency and economic growth. An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Purity & Calibration Team as a Researcher, filling a vacancy built through internal promotion. The main function of the role will be to lead, develop and support approaches to deliver measurements for the quantification and characterisation of organic molecules in support of the UK’s industrial and societal needs. This includes characterisation of the NML reference materials, purity assignment of organic compounds in simple to complex matrices, as well as structural confirmation and characterisation of organic compounds in pharmaceutical, forensics and consumer products. The Purity & Calibration Team is equipped with NMR spectrometers (high-field and benchtop), HPLC-DAD, GC-FID, Karl Fischer, TGA-MS and DSC instrumentation to cover a wide range of analytical techniques to deliver innovative measurement capability. This role is a great chance for a motivated scientist skilled in identifying and characterising organic compounds, along with quantifying them using NMR spectroscopy and analytical chemistry. The position calls for someone who will aid in the development and completion of medium- to long-term research projects. They will also support short-term commercial services and help maintain ISO 17025 calibration facilities. Key Responsibilities - Develop and implement solution state NMR spectroscopy techniques to identify, characterise and quantify organic compounds. - Use of orthogonal analytical techniques: HPLC/UPLC-UV, GC-FID, Karl Fischer, DSC and TGA-MS analysis for assessing the purity of organic compounds. - Work closely with customers (internal and external) to assess the most appropriate tools to fulfil analytical requirements and maintain a focus on timely delivery of projects. - Take charge of development, planning, and implementation of experimental work on multiple projects, ensuring delivery of high-quality results within agreed timelines and in support of commercial objectives. - Work in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements and company quality procedures, contributing to the accurate operation and continual improvement of the laboratory quality management system. - Assist in monitoring and maintaining laboratory instruments and ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration systems to provide highly accurate measurement services. - Provide presentations, training and advice to others to share findings and promote increased scientific and strategic understanding around methods. Knowledge, Experience and Technical Skills Ideally, the successful candidate will hold a PhD degree or have equivalent industrial experience in solution state NMR Spectroscopy and Analytical Chemistry. They should also have experience applying these techniques to organic compound characterization and quantitation. Experience in other fields such as Pharmaceutical Sciences, Forensic Science, or Organic Chemistry is also welcome. Training on instrumentation relevant to this role will be provided as needed. The successful candidate will be able to showcase the following attributes: - Enthusiastic and innovative scientist with a strong desire to develop their own technical abilities and support the development and delivery of the team’s research portfolio. - Experience managing and maintaining multiple analytical methods is required. NMR expertise is essential, while experience with HPLC/UPLC-UV, GC-FID, Karl Fischer, DSC, and TGA-MS is preferred. - Understanding of the fundamentals of organic chemistry and compound characterisation. - A rational approach to problem solving with strong attention to detail and ability to accurately record observations, data and conclusions during experimental investigations. - Is a positive advocate for new technology and process improvements. - Promotes achievements with reports, presentations and scientific publications. - Proficient communicator who can engage effectively with collaborators. - Experience working within ISO/IEC 17025 quality management systems.