RSSL (Reading Scientific Services Limited) is a multi-award-winning food and pharmaceutical contract research organisation, pushing the boundaries of science to make our world safer, healthier, and more sustainable. Our clients, based across 70 countries, trust us to deliver intelligent solutions to real-world problems through rigorous analytical testing, cutting-edge research and development, customised consultancy, and training services.
In 2023, we have been shortlisted for a number of awards, including two from the FDF - Technologist of the Year and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award. In 2022, OBN recognised us as Best Contract Research Organisation (CRO) for the second time, while The Great British Business and Community Awards named us Employer of the Year and The Thames Valley Business Award honoured us as their Business of the Year.
When you join RSSL, you’re joining a global network enriched by our parent company Mondelēz International. Our diverse team includes 23 nationalities from 350 members and, all together, we are committed to transforming lives through science, innovation, and collaboration.
Life at RSSL
As a Graduate Scientist at RSSL, you will be based within one of our cutting-edge laboratories, providing services to our external customers and in some cases, Mondelez. You will have the chance to apply your academic learning in a friendly and intellectually challenging environment.
A successful Graduate Scientist will be responsible for performing a range of routine and investigative analyses in accordance with quality standards, ensuring that projects are completed effectively and meet the customer’s needs. The type of analyses performed are specific to each of RSSL’s laboratories, who specialise in a wide range of analytical techniques, these include;
- Wet Chemistry techniques such as pH, titrations, specific optical rotation, RI and osmolality
- Chromatographic techniques such as HPLC, HPLC-MS, GC-MS, GC-FID
- Spectroscopic techniques such as AAS, MP-AES, ICP-MS/ICP-OES, FT-IR and UV-spec
- Microscopic techniques such as SEM, EDS and XRF
- Other assay techniques such as ELISA, PCR and whole genome sequencing
You’ll also join our Grow Our Own Programme, where we’ll help you thrive in your career through open and honest conversations around your progress, with the support of your manager and a mentor. With a tailored development plan, to help you identify key experiences to support your progression, but the ultimate responsibility for shaping your career path will be yours.
For our Graduate Scientists, the degree required will depended on the specialism of the area. Generally, we will consider the following degrees - Biochemistry, Biological Science, Chemistry (and related degrees such as Analytical Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Forensic Science/Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Chemistry), Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Natural Sciences, Physics and Materials Science.
The Responsibilities
- Working in an organised manner within tight deadlines and under minimal supervision
- Providing high quality customer service at all times
- Ensuring effective management of assigned workloads, integrity of analytical data generated and timely/accurate provision of results
- Developing expertise in analytical techniques and scientific understanding and performing basic maintenance and troubleshooting of lab equipment
- Report writing
- Providing training in routine activities and methods
- Proficiency in use of generic and specific software packages required for the role, such as Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and Q-Pulse.
- Performing method validation following protocols, and transcription checking for factual data
- Take responsibility as required for elements of specific projects and/or specific areas of general laboratory/sample administration
Please be aware that this role may require handling of materials that may contain chemicals, solvents and allergens, and the appropriate protective wear will be supplied.
Candidate Requirements
- Studying towards a science related degree (details above)
- Predicted classification 2:1 (or equivalent)
- Self-driven and motivated
- Naturally inquisitive and passionate about technical excellence
- Can work with a level of autonomy, as well as within a team
- Demonstrate strong analytical, communication and presentation abilities
- Pro-active and ready to take on new responsibilities
- Able to build strong relationships
- Good working knowledge of MS Office
- Able to travel (if required)
In return for your commitment, drive and enthusiasm, we offer an attractive benefits package within a highly successful international business that offers a competitive salary, 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays), contributory pension, life assurance, and a flexible benefits programme.
Please note - we recruit graduates throughout the year. If you are unsuccessful, you will receive an email to let you know. If you do not receive an email, you may be contacted at any time with an invite for interview.
RSSL and Mondelēz are a diverse and inclusive employer with an objective to ensure a fair and equal hiring process. If you require any reasonable adjustments to apply or throughout our assessment process, please contact earlycareers@rssl.com stating “RSSL Graduate Scientist – Immediate” as the subject.
