Job Introduction
Undergraduate Industrial Placement Student, Automation in Chemistry
Pharmaron is a comprehensive research, development, and manufacturing CRO for life sciences. At our Hoddesdon site, we discover efficient and scalable syntheses of potential future medicines. To do this, we use cutting edge technologies such as high-throughput experimentation (HTE), design of experiment, photo- and flow chemistry. In 2026, Pharmaron Hoddesdon opened a brand new HTE facility comprising of Labman Multidose solid-weighing robot, Unchained Labs Big Kahuna automation platform, Vapourtec R-Series flow chemistry instruments, and our existing photochemistry and UPLC equipment.
We are currently seeking for an undergraduate chemistry student to join our team for a 12-month Automation in Chemistry Industrial Placement. This placement provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in modern synthetic chemistry laboratories using state-of-the-art equipment.
You will develop your practical skills and gain exposure to the principles and techniques used to automate chemical process development. Utilizing your knowledge and problem-solving abilities, you will contribute to a methodology-based project with guidance and support from a lab-based chemist. You will work alongside chemists and data scientists to deliver new and improved automation workflows for organic synthesis.
At Pharmaron, we offer:
- Vibrant and dynamic employment: We are a highly specialized, growth-oriented company operating in a critical sector of the economy, promising a strong and exciting future.
- Opportunities for skill and personal development: Our rapid growth offers you the chance to learn and grow at an accelerated pace.
- A supportive and collaborative team environment: Enjoy your work and thrive in a team where we support each other, recognizing that you spend about a third of your time here.
The Company offers a competitive salary and an attractive benefits package, including:
- Free on-site parking
- Gym membership
- Cycle to work scheme
- Additional leave
- Pension
Job Type: Fixed-term contract
Contract length: 12 months
Closing date for applications: 16 October 2026.
Requirements:
- Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree with a significant Chemical Engineering or Organic Chemistry component.
- Knowledge of Python fundamentals. Demonstrated track record of Python programming (e.g. GitHub) is preferred.
- Predicted 1st or 2:1 degree classification (or equivalent)
- Strong teamwork skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Good problem-solving abilities, logic and mathematics skills
- Attention to detail
- Conscientiousness
- Well-organized and confident in working independently
Application Process:
To apply, please submit a CV (including a list of courses and grades) and a covering letter. In your covering letter, please include:
- A brief description of your motivations for pursuing this opportunity
- Any direct or indirect experience relevant to the role
Note: Applications without a covering letter will not be considered. Applications will only be accepted to one of our Industrial Placement offerings.
Closing date for applications: 16 October 2026