Associate Scientist- Molecular Sensors

Paragraf’s patented contamination-free deposition technology delivers game-changing opportunities for the commercialisation of graphene by allowing us to manufacture high-purity 2D graphene sheets at scale.

Paragraf is the first company in the world to mass produce graphene-based electronic devices using standard semiconductor processes. We not only specialise in the manufacture of high-purity graphene but also its seamless integration into ready to use products that can be quickly adopted by our customers and partners to support the advancement of their technologies.

At Paragraf we are committed to materially transforming electronics through the development of high-purity graphene products that will facilitate massive improvements in the performance of technologies across all aspects of life.

Founded as a spin out from Cambridge University in 2017 with the aim of transferring the technology from the academic lab into a commercial entity. Since then, we have grown from one site in Somersham, Cambridgeshire and three employees to a team of over 100 people and an additional production facility in Huntingdon as well as sales teams globally promoting Paragraf.

The role will support the development and progress on molecular sensors development project activities, as set out by our technology and commercialisation roadmap; coordinating with colleagues within the Research Department and the wider teams as required to assist the team deliver to ambitious but focused projects within timescales and targets.

What you'll be doing;

o   Develop and evaluate novel testing methods for the use of molecular sensors in target applications.

o   Develop and evaluate surface modification and processing to optimise the performance of molecular sensors for target applications.

o   Perform quality control measurements on molecular sensor devices.

o   Compile and deliver updates of your work for team reviews.

o   Support the team as required with the daily management of activities.

o   Share research through publications and external events.

o   Document & implement R&D practices, approaches and policies.

o   Work with external partners and manage their contributions where necessary.

Requirements

Education and Qualifications:

• Degree in in electrochemistry, chemistry or another related field, or equivalent industrial experience.

Essential skills, experience and knowledge:

• Knowledge and experience in electrochemical testing (cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, chronoamperometry, etc)
• Strong applied, hands-on experimental capabilities.
• Considered and organised approach to tasks.
• Capability to grasp quickly new scientific concepts and technologies.
• Exceptional team player with strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to reflect, learn from mistakes and respond positively to feedback.
• Ability to handle several ongoing projects and can prioritise and organise own workload.
• Capability to work autonomously and make considered decisions.

Advantageous skills, experience and knowledge:

• Higher Degree (Masters) from a leading university in electrochemistry, chemistry or another related field
• Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following:
• Ion selective field effect transistors
• Gas detection systems
• Surface chemistry and functionalisation with small molecules/biomolecules.
• Surface analytical techniques
• Fabrication and development of semiconductor devices

Communication:

• Excellent communication skills with the confidence to contribute and encourage ideas generation to senior management
• Effectively communicate technical information, and to report on status of work in a timely manner to senior management
• Ability to present information clearly and appropriately for the audience

Additional factors:

• Respect and adherence to confidentiality and critical matters
• Responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy work environment by complying with company policies and processes and all relevant regulations including the use of PPE, as appropriate to the level and scope of the role. This includes participation in health and safety training and reporting of any potential hazards or breaches of safety protocols in the appropriate manner.
• Willing to travel both domestically and abroad
• UK Driving licence

Benefits

At Paragraf we are constantly looking for new ways to support and reward our team. This is our current list of benefits, they are subject to change and review:

• Group Personal Pension Plan- Employer contribution 5%, Employee contribution minimum 4%
• Private health insurance on completion of probation
• Share Option scheme
• Death in service of 3 times salary and income protection on completion of probation
• 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays, and the chance to ‘purchase’ up to 5 additional days each year
• Personal and Professional Development Plans and support
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Electric Vehicle Lease Scheme
• Payroll Giving scheme