Organization: Unilever
Location: Port Sunlight Research Lab, England, United Kingdom
Job ID: R-1174604
Employment Type: Full Time
Job Category: Research & Development
About Unilever and the One Packaging R&D Centre
Unilever is committed to building a waste-free world through its ambitious Packaging Strategy. As part of its journey toward a circular, net-zero future, the company is reimagining packaging materials and technologies to redefine the industry. Rather than relying on incremental improvements, Unilever is investing in breakthrough material science to transform traditional packaging into a next-generation technical field driven by science and entrepreneurial thinking.
The One Packaging R&D Centre plays a central role in this transformation. The Centre focuses on developing a packaging portfolio by building world-class materials capability and strong external partnerships. With a particular emphasis on flexible packaging, the Centre fosters scientific leadership and accelerates the development of innovative packaging solutions with a positive environmental impact.
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Role Purpose
The Sustainable Packaging Materials Scientist will contribute to the Future Packaging Technologies team, supporting the development of affordable, high-performance solutions across Unilever’s packaging portfolio. This role is designed for an individual who combines scientific rigour with creative thinking and who is motivated by the challenge of delivering sustainable innovation at scale.
By applying expertise in materials science and coatings technology, the successful candidate will help advance new packaging materials from laboratory research through pilot trials, ensuring performance, durability, and sustainability standards are met.
Core Responsibilities
Advancing Sustainable Material Solutions
- Support the selection, application, and optimisation of inks, coatings, and overprint varnishes on flexible substrates to meet performance and sustainability targets.
- Evaluate physical, chemical, and surface properties of fibre-based and film substrates to ensure compatibility with printing and coating systems.
- Apply established analytical and characterisation techniques to assess adhesion, barrier properties, durability, and overall performance.
Laboratory and Pilot Scale Support
- Provide day-to-day technical support, including sample preparation, testing, data collection, and troubleshooting.
- Assist in scaling up materials from laboratory experiments to pilot trials by preparing materials, supporting execution, and documenting process conditions.
- Contribute to experimental design and project planning to generate insights that inform sustainability claims and intellectual property development.
Documentation and Collaboration
- Maintain accurate documentation, contribute to the creation of standard operating procedures, and ensure reliable testing practices.
- Prepare data packages for internal reviews, sustainability reporting, and potential IP filings.
- Engage with external partners and suppliers to source materials and evaluate new technologies while fostering strong internal and external relationships.
- Collaborate with digital experts to leverage digital tools for material selection, data interpretation, and process optimisation.
As the role evolves, the scientist will be expected to plan and execute work with increasing autonomy while aligning activities with broader programme milestones.
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Required Candidate Profile
Unilever seeks a passionate innovator eager to advance sustainable packaging. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment and demonstrates curiosity, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose.
Education
A higher education qualification in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Packaging Science, Printing and Coating Technology, Paper Technology, or a closely related discipline is required.
Professional Experience and Skills
- Experience in industrially relevant materials development or characterisation.
- Knowledge of coatings, inks, and overprint varnishes for film substrates, with an understanding of substrate interaction and application methods.
- Practical laboratory experience with coatings or printing systems, along with familiarity with performance evaluation methods.
- Experience supporting pilot activities, including documentation and minor troubleshooting.
- Proficiency in laboratory equipment and data analysis, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across functions and build constructive partnerships.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to present technical findings clearly to diverse audiences.
- A creative mindset with the ambition to inspire colleagues and stakeholders.
What Unilever Offers
Unilever provides a competitive salary and pension scheme, complemented by an annual bonus, subsidised gym membership, discounted staff shop, and share opportunities. Employees benefit from a flexible and hybrid working environment and the opportunity to work alongside some of the world’s most recognised brands.
Although the role is advertised as full-time, flexible working arrangements may be discussed. Unilever actively supports employee well-being through dedicated programmes, development initiatives, and inclusive workplace policies that create equal opportunities for all.
The company is deeply committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring fair consideration for all applicants regardless of background. Reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process are available to support candidates in presenting their best selves.
Recruitment Awareness
Unilever actively combats recruitment fraud. Applicants are advised to remain vigilant against fraudulent job advertisements, fake websites, or payment requests during the hiring process. Unilever does not request fees for background checks or visa processing, and candidates are encouraged to report suspicious activity through official channels.
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Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to apply through Unilever’s official careers portal using the provided Job ID: R-1174604.
Applicants should ensure all required documentation is submitted through the official platform.