Job profile

We are seeking an enthusiastic and talented scientist to work on an innovative collaboration between ADSL (Advanced Development & Safety Laboratories Limited) based near Paignton, Devon and the University of Plymouth.  This position will be based near Paignton, Devon.

This is a very interesting and challenging role for a qualified scientist to work on a joint project under Knowledge Transfer Partnership, between ADSL and the University of Plymouth. The key objective of this role is to develop and embed a scientific method to certify the purity and quality of Cannabidiol (CBD), to ensure it is a clean and safe ingredient to be used in the development of new innovative nanotechnology-based formulations, including emulsions. This will enable improvements in stability, shelf life and enhance health benefits.

You will have:

Essential criteria that must be met:

• A good first degree with a minimum 2.1 (Hons) in Chemistry, Pharmacology, Toxicology or similar. Please specify grade.
• A master’s degree, in a complementary discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Evidence of familiarity with analytical techniques, especially HPLC and understanding of ICP-MS.
• You will also have experience in designing modifying and optimising scientific methodologies and running experiments.
• Desirable criteria that would be advantageous.
• A postgraduate qualification such as a PhD in a topic related to novel formulations, natural products, biotechnology for healthcare, or nanotechnology.
• An ability to apply those skills in a commercial environment to develop new methods and SOPs.
• Experience of new product development and innovation for the health, wellbeing and supplement markets particularly using emulsions and gels.
• Experience of working in industry with an understanding of legislation and regulation.
• Experience of developing training materials and scientific data sheets, and an ability to train others in the methods you have developed.
• Excellent communication skills to span all areas in the business and liaise with regulatory bodies and customers.
• Ideally you will an interest and enthusiasm for medicinal natural products and formulation into commercial products.
• Have the ability to contribute to new, and work within existing QA systems.

You will be highly numerate with well-developed statistical skills. You will need to be methodical and tenacious with a proven ability to lead a project from the scientific perspective ,and work well within a team.

The Company:

Formed in 2008 and with full ISO 17025 accredited facilities, ADSL’s fully qualified, independent team of Chartered Chemists, Toxicologists, Microbiologists and Regulatory experts specialise in formulation and testing services within the cosmetic and household goods Industry. Their exceptional expertise and complementary skills in manufacturing, process controls, industry regulation, health and safety, marketing, and project management enable them to support customer every step of the way to see their product through to successful market launch.

University of Plymouth:

The University of Plymouth continues to succeed internationally and globally with our alumni present in over 100 countries contributing to economies and cultures through their chosen careers, while our research has global impact which influences policy, contributes to economic and cultural prosperity and transforms lives. The university’s origins are rooted in exploration and discovery and today plays a key role in the civic, cultural, social and economic life of Plymouth. You will be working with Dr Richard Billington, a very experienced biochemist with interests in natural products, Professor Richard Handy, a leading expert on the safety of nano-enabled products, and Dr David Jenkins Associate Professor of Nanomaterials and Devices.

Please demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.

For an informal discussion to find out more about the role then please contact Dave Marshall by email at d.marshall@plymouth.ac.uk

Interviews are likely to take place week commencing 10^th October 2022 and you will be notified if you have been shortlisted or not.

This is a full-time working 37 hours per week on a fixed-term basis for 21 months due to funding.

Flexible working options including job share will be considered.

We offer a competitive salary package and a generous pension and holiday scheme. We also offer a range of other benefits, including ongoing development opportunities.

A successful external candidate for this position would be employed by the University of Plymouth Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of Plymouth. Employees of the University of Plymouth Services Limited work alongside the University of Plymouth colleagues in delivery of Plymouth’s strategic vision, and will adopt the University of Plymouth’s HR policies and procedures in full unless otherwise stated.

The University of Plymouth is a diverse, welcoming community where everyone makes a difference and is encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. To find out more about our inclusive community, initiatives such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter and our range of benefits / support mechanisms such as flexible working, staff networks and enhanced maternity, paternity & adoption leave please visit our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion webpages

We particularly welcome applicants from under-represented groups such as BAME/BIPOC and LGBT+.

Job Description