What types of companies hire materials scientists in Cambridge?

Companies in Cambridge range from academic institutions like the University of Cambridge to research-heavy startups and scaleups. The larger consultancies and pharmaceutical firms also have a presence.

Are most materials science roles in Cambridge on-site or hybrid?

Many roles in Cambridge offer a hybrid model, combining on-site work with remote flexibility. However, laboratory-based positions typically require more on-site presence.

What are the main areas of research in materials science in Cambridge?

Key areas of research include polymers, nanomaterials, biomaterials, and composites. There is also significant work in materials characterisation and metallurgy.

How competitive is the job market for materials scientists in Cambridge?

The job market in Cambridge is highly competitive, with a concentration of top talent and leading institutions. However, the city's strong ecosystem provides numerous opportunities for skilled professionals.

What is the salary range for materials scientists in Cambridge?

Salary ranges can vary widely depending on experience and role. For more detailed information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

Materials Science Jobs in Cambridge

Cambridge is a global hub for materials science, home to leading universities, research institutions, and innovative companies. The city's ecosystem fosters cutting-edge research and development in advanced materials, from polymers to nanomaterials.

Open roles

Salary range

£37k – £60k

Hiring companies

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Cambridge is renowned for its world-class research and development in materials science. The city hosts a vibrant ecosystem of universities, research institutions, and innovative companies, making it a prime location for materials scientists and engineers. The University of Cambridge, in particular, is a powerhouse in this field, with its Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy leading numerous breakthroughs. Many scaleups and research-heavy startups in the area focus on developing advanced materials, including polymers, nanomaterials, biomaterials, and composites. The local job market is a mix of on-site and hybrid roles, offering flexibility and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Salary on the board

£37k – £60k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 5 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority

£k base

Mid

4 jobs

Live jobs

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Production Planner

The Production Planner is responsible for analysing production and demand data to develop and maintain efficient production schedules. This role involves managing the Master Production Schedule, monitoring material flow across the supply chain, identifying constraints, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to support S&OP processes and improve planning accuracy. The position ensures inventory levels are optimised and customer requirements are consistently met.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Hybrid Permanent

Regional Sales Manager- Europe

Location: UK or GermanyAt Johnson Matthey, your work will matter. As a Regional Sales Manager, you’ll join a world leader in platinum group metals with over 200 years of history. Using advanced metals chemistry, you’ll help tackle the world’s biggest...

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Digital Marketing Specialist / Manager

Digital Marketing Specialist/ManagerTeam – MarketingLocation – CambridgeContract – Full-time, PermanentAbout CGDMaking Sustainable Power Electronics PossibleA spin-out of the Cambridge University, Cambridge GaN Devices (CGD) is a fabless semiconductor company that develops a range of energy-efficient GaN-based power devices to make...

Cambridge GaN Devices Cambridge, United Kingdom

On-site

Manufacturing apprentice - Melting

As a Manufacturing apprentice in Melting, you will support metal melting and casting processes, operate equipment, maintain a clean workspace, and complete quality checks. You will also attend college one day per week and work towards a National Vocational qualification.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

On-site

ERP Analyst (iSeries/AS400)

Job purposeAs a ERP Analyst in AS400/iSeries, you’ll contribute to JM’s mission as a world leader in sustainable technology, transforming energy and reducing carbon emissions for a cleaner, brighter future.Your work will directly support JM’s mission as a global leader...

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Corporate Platforms Programme Manager

As a Corporate Platforms Programme Manager, you will lead complex, multi-year technology programmes across corporate functions like Finance, HR, and Legal. You will define programme scope, manage delivery, and ensure successful adoption of changes, working closely with multidisciplinary teams and senior stakeholders.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Hybrid Permanent Flexible

Security Governance and Assurance Manager

As a Security Governance and Assurance Manager, you will own and improve JM’s Global Security Policy, conduct security audits, and manage risk classification. You will work with global teams to ensure security compliance and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Hybrid Permanent Flexible

Security Governance and Assurance Manager

As a Security Governance and Assurance Manager, you will own and improve JM’s global security policies, conduct security audits, and manage risk classification. You will work closely with global teams to ensure security compliance and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Johnson Matthey Cambridge, United Kingdom

Hybrid Permanent Flexible

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The scene

Hiring in Cambridge

Cambridge's materials science sector is driven by a combination of academic excellence and industrial innovation. The city's universities and research institutions provide a steady stream of highly qualified graduates and postdoctoral researchers, making it an attractive location for companies seeking top talent.

The local job market is characterised by a diverse range of opportunities, from fundamental research in academic settings to applied development in industry. Many roles involve interdisciplinary collaboration, offering materials scientists the chance to work with experts from other fields such as chemistry, physics, and engineering.

The city's commitment to sustainability and advanced technologies also means that there is a growing focus on developing materials for green applications, such as renewable energy and environmental remediation.

FAQs

Common questions

Companies in Cambridge range from academic institutions like the University of Cambridge to research-heavy startups and scaleups. The larger consultancies and pharmaceutical firms also have a presence.
Many roles in Cambridge offer a hybrid model, combining on-site work with remote flexibility. However, laboratory-based positions typically require more on-site presence.
Key areas of research include polymers, nanomaterials, biomaterials, and composites. There is also significant work in materials characterisation and metallurgy.
The job market in Cambridge is highly competitive, with a concentration of top talent and leading institutions. However, the city's strong ecosystem provides numerous opportunities for skilled professionals.
Salary ranges can vary widely depending on experience and role. For more detailed information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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