Research Scientist - Technology Development

Every minute of every day, Smiths Detection’s threat detection and security screening technology helps to protect people and infrastructure, making the world a safer place.

Smiths Detection, part of Smiths Group is a global leader in the development, manufacture and management of security and detection solutions designed to make the world a safer place. Our technology provides threat detection and screening solutions for customers in our key markets: aviation, ports and borders, defence, and urban security.

Our expertise spans 21 global offices, seven manufacturing sites and five R&D centres, with a global network of 3,000 dedicated colleagues contributing towards over 40 years at the frontline of advances in safety and security.

This results in careers built on variety and the opportunity to work on a range of state-of-the-art solutions, where you can develop your knowledge and experience every day.

Scientist - 6 Month FTC

We are seeking a skilled Scientist ideally with a PhD in Physics or Chemistry and well documented demonstration of experimental and data analysis skills work to join our technology team. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of detection technologies for explosives, narcotics, and chemical threats.

Due to the sensitive nature of the projects you will be working on, you will need to be eligible for SC level Clearance, unfortunately applicants that are on any type of Visa or require sponsorship cannot be considered.

Role Purpose

You will play a pivotal role in technology and product development by providing scientific expertise in:

• Instrument and experimental design.
• Planning, execution, and analysis of experiments.
• Data modeling and formulation of actionable insights.
• Driving innovation in detection technologies to support current and future products.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, and test experimental equipment with scientific precision.
• Conduct original research to enhance product performance and functionality.
• Analyze complex experimental data, develop theories, and provide guidance based on results.
• Identify knowledge gaps and propose additional research initiatives.
• Support scientific aspects of product lifecycles, including trials and off-site tests.
• Contribute to project planning, reviews, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Provide technical advice to key stakeholders and participate in bid preparation.
• Lead or mentor technicians and ensure adherence to company policies and safety standards.

Qualifications

• A PhD in Chemistry or Physics is highly desirable
• Analytical instrument design knowledge, particularly ion mobility spectrometry, is highly desirable
• A well documented demonstration of experimental and data analysis skills
• Proposes innovative ideas for original research
• Excellent communication skills; ability to interact effectively with colleagues at all levels
• Must be a motivated and self-starting individual capable of driving themselves to succeed in project goals as part of a multi-disciplinary project team
• Able to successfully carry out projects/assignments of reasonable scope
• Suggests and contributes to determining general approach and specific solutions to technical problems
• Basic knowledge of other related disciplines
• Frequent use and application of technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques
• Provides solutions to a variety of technical problems of moderate scope and complexity

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

At no time during the hiring process will Smiths Detection, Smiths Group, nor any of our recruitment partners ever request payment to enable participation – including, but not limited to, interviews or testing. Avoid fraudulent requests by applying jobs directly through our career’s website () or LinkedIn

Additional information

We offer…

Join us and we’ll help build your career, with excellent training and opportunities for career growth across the business, both locally and globally. You’ll experience an inclusive environment, with strong leadership and a focus on safety and wellbeing. You’ll also have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of benefits to suit your lifestyle, offering you and your family support from a health and wellbeing, financial and lifestyle perspective.

Join us and work for a world-leader, with the benefits and training to reward your dedication and skills. Be part of a team where we are making the world a safer place.

We believe that different perspectives and backgroun