A hub for materials science innovation, with a strong focus on advanced manufacturing and research.
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.
Rise Technical Recruitment
Oversee and provide technical support across all departments, taking technical management of production processes in a foundry or metallurgy setting. The role offers autonomy to drive continuous improvements hands-on, with a Monday to Friday days pattern and an early Friday finish.
The University of Manchester
Four-year PhD studentship developing chemically defined amphiphilic polymers to extract and stabilise membrane proteins, especially ion channels, into native-like nanodiscs. The student will synthesise polymer libraries using automated synthesis, characterise them by NMR and size-exclusion chromatography, and screen for membrane interaction and nanodisc formation to build structure–activity relationships.
Automated Polymer Synthesis · NMR Spectroscopy · Size-Exclusion Chromatography
A little outside Manchester, but within reach.
Templarfox Consultancy
Hands-on analytical role within a specialised spectroscopy function, acting as subject matter expert for SEM, SEM/EDX and FTIR instrumentation. Duties include preparing diverse sample matrices, instrument troubleshooting, data interpretation and writing reports for multinational clients across sectors. Requires independent working to tight deadlines and strong client communication.
Scanning Electron Microscope · SEM/EDX · FTIR +4
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.
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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