What types of companies hire materials scientists in Manchester?

Manchester hosts a mix of research-heavy startups, scaleups, and larger consultancies, as well as academic institutions like the University of Manchester.

Is remote or hybrid work common in materials science roles here?

While many roles require on-site lab work, hybrid working arrangements are increasingly common, especially for project management and research roles.

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

Key areas include nanomaterials, polymers, biomaterials, and advanced composites, with a strong focus on applications in healthcare, energy, and manufacturing.

How do salaries for materials science roles in Manchester compare to other UK cities?

Salaries can vary based on experience and the specific company, but you can find detailed salary information in the salary section of this page.

Materials Science Jobs in Manchester

A hub for materials science innovation, with a strong focus on advanced manufacturing and research.

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Manchester is a leading centre for materials science in the UK, home to world-class research institutions and a thriving ecosystem of scaleups and established companies. The city's strong industrial heritage, combined with cutting-edge facilities like the National Graphene Institute, makes it an ideal location for materials scientists and engineers. Whether you're working on polymers, nanomaterials, or advanced composites, Manchester offers a dynamic environment with a blend of on-site and hybrid working options.

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Senior Power Device Engineer

The role involves leading multidisciplinary research and innovation projects in GaN-based power devices and ICs, from concept through to demonstrators. The engineer will conduct feasibility studies, perform simulations and device design using TCAD, and collaborate with experts across analog IC design, reliability, packaging, and operations. The position is central to developing next-generation energy-efficient semiconductor technology within a growing R&D team.

Cambridge GaN Devices Cambridge, United Kingdom

On-site Permanent

Senior Computer Vision Data Scientist

Develop physics-informed predictive maintenance systems by fusing inspection imagery, equipment operating history, and physics-based inputs to forecast component lifespan. Build robust, interpretable computer vision models that perform reliably under sparse, noisy industrial data conditions. Collaborate directly with engineers and domain experts to deliver trustworthy, production-grade AI solutions for high-value industrial assets.

PhysicsX England US$120,000 – US$240,000 pa

On-site Permanent

Site Electrician

The Site Electrician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in an industrial setting at Johnson Matthey’s Royston facility. Key duties include emergency lighting checks, circuit installations, PAT testing, PPMs, and coordinating with other trades. The role requires adherence to safety standards and electrical compliance, with a focus on reliability and fault-finding in a fixed-term contract.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

On-site Contract

Mechanical Technician

The role involves performing proactive and reactive mechanical maintenance on industrial systems within a high-hazard COMAH-regulated site. You'll conduct fault finding, equipment repairs, installations, and commissioning, using technical drawings and P&IDs to support safe and reliable operations. The position requires hands-on mechanical expertise in a 24/7 shift environment, focusing on improving engineering reliability and compliance.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom £44,113 – £60,345 pa

On-site Permanent Shift-work

Staff Machine Learning Software Engineer, Research

This role involves leading machine learning research initiatives within a deep-tech environment, focusing on scalable AI-driven simulation for engineering and physics problems. The engineer will guide technical direction, mentor junior staff, and translate research into robust, production-grade software. Key responsibilities include designing distributed training systems, optimising foundation models, and collaborating across research and engineering teams to deliver high-impact solutions.

PhysicsX London, United Kingdom

On-site Permanent

Machine Learning Software Engineer, Research

Develop and optimize machine learning models for AI-driven physics and engineering simulations, translating research prototypes into scalable, production-grade systems. Work across the full stack of scientific computing, distributed training, and cloud infrastructure to deliver high-fidelity simulation tools. Collaborate closely with research scientists and engineers in a multidisciplinary team tackling real-world industrial challenges.

PhysicsX London, United Kingdom

On-site Permanent

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Roles further afield

A little outside Manchester, but within reach.

Composite Manufacturing Engineer

This role involves developing and optimizing manufacturing processes for advanced composite structures, working closely with design, production, and quality teams to ensure high standards and continuous improvement. The engineer will also support the introduction of new products, design tooling, and conduct process validation activities.

Meritus Talent Darwen, United Kingdom £38,000 – £45,000 pa

On-site Permanent

The scene

Hiring in Manchester

Manchester's materials science sector is supported by a robust network of academic and industrial partnerships. The University of Manchester, in particular, is a key player, with its National Graphene Institute and Henry Royce Institute driving cutting-edge research.

Companies in Manchester are actively seeking materials scientists and engineers to work on a wide range of projects, from developing new materials for sustainable energy solutions to advancing medical technologies. The city's commitment to innovation and collaboration makes it an exciting place to build a career in materials science.

FAQs

Common questions

Manchester hosts a mix of research-heavy startups, scaleups, and larger consultancies, as well as academic institutions like the University of Manchester.
While many roles require on-site lab work, hybrid working arrangements are increasingly common, especially for project management and research roles.
Key areas include nanomaterials, polymers, biomaterials, and advanced composites, with a strong focus on applications in healthcare, energy, and manufacturing.
Salaries can vary based on experience and the specific company, but you can find detailed salary information in the salary section of this page.

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