Laboratory Engineer – Materials Synthesis & Characterisation

About the role

We are looking for a Laboratory Engineer to help set‑up and run a new materials synthesis and characterisation laboratory in London. You will work closely with AI researchers, materials scientists and world‑renowned engineers to deliver high‑quality experimental data for cutting‑edge projects.

Key responsibilities

• Operate and maintain core instrument suite independently, including high‑vacuum equipment, high‑temperature metallurgy systems, high‑field magnets, X‑ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical characterisation tools.
• Perform routine and preventive maintenance, diagnose faults early and keep equipment in optimal condition.
• Run synthesis and characterisation experiments, ensuring reproducibility and rigorous data capture.
• Write and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) and risk assessments for owned equipment and processes.
• Manage consumables, materials inventory and equipment readiness for the wider research team.
• Collaborate with materials scientists and machine‑learning researchers to design experimental runs and integrate results into AI pipelines.

Required profile

• Degree in physics, engineering, materials science or a related discipline.
• Several years of hands‑on experience operating and maintaining research‑grade equipment in a professional setting.
• Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience in a fast‑moving, innovative environment such as a start‑up, national laboratory or industrial research centre.

Required skills

• High‑vacuum equipment operation and maintenance.
• High‑temperature metallurgy system handling.
• High‑field magnet usage.
• X‑ray diffraction (XRD) expertise.
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) expertise.
• Optical characterisation techniques.
• Vacuum system leak detection and routine upkeep.
• Ionising radiation safety compliance.

What we offer

• Competitive salary ranging from £35,000 to £55,000 per year.
• Opportunity to work in a fast‑growing AI‑driven start‑up at the forefront of materials science.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art instrumentation and a collaborative, high‑impact research environment.