R&D Industrial Placement Student

Company Description About Sika Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a leading position in the development and production of systems and products for sealing, bonding, damping, reinforcing, and protecting in the building sector and industrial manufacturing. Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world and manufactures in over 400 factories. It’s 33,700 employees generated annual sales of CHF 11.2 billion in 2025.

Job Description

About R&D The core responsibility of the Preston R&D team is to develop polymeric intermediates that enhance Sika’s product portfolio across the UK within sealants, adhesives, and coatings. The team works closely with other Sika R&D teams based around the UK to deliver improved product performance as well as sustainability initiatives. R&D is a key component in Sika’s aim to be a driver of the transformation of the construction and manufacturing industry towards net zero. Purpose of the Role As an R&D Industrial Placement Student, you’ll be at the heart of hands-on lab work — synthesising polymers and chemical intermediates, testing applications, and contributing to the development of high-performance, sustainable products. You’ll design experiments, analyse data, and see your academic knowledge come to life in a real-world industrial setting. What’s In it for You?

The Opportunity

Hands-on experience in organic chemistry and product development. Develop into a well-rounded chemist through practical R&D experience, that transforms you into an industry-ready chemist — equipping you with the skills and insights to excel in any role. Working in a dynamic, supportive environment that values collaboration, creativity and innovation.

The Rewards

You will be rewarded with a competitive salary, and a sweep of great benefits. We pride ourselves on our total reward package: Holiday 25 days rising to 28 days with service, plus bank holidays Core Hours Working between 10:00-16:00 A company pension contribution of up to 10% Private heal