R&D Apprentice

Join Incorez’s Preston R&D team, working at the heart of polymer synthesis, formulation, and product testing that supports Sika’s UK portfolio in sealants, adhesives, and coatings. Incorez has been part of the Sika Group since 2009, giving you the backing of a global leader while contributing to innovation at site level.

You will be based in the R&D function at the Preston Global Technology Centre, helping to develop new products, evaluate materials, and improve manufacturing efficiency—activities that directly support Sika’s transformation towards net‑zero and better customer outcomes.

What you’ll do (key responsibilities)

Support day‑to‑day lab operations: prepare work areas, manage consumables and raw‑material stock, arrange equipment calibration/servicing, and uphold 5S standards for cleanliness and safety. Run tests and collect data: carry out product application trials, performance testing, and materials characterisation (e.g., FTIR, gas chromatography), recording results accurately and sharing insights with the team. Contribute to formulation & synthesis: assist with small‑molecule and polymer synthesis projects, following agreed experimental designs and documenting methods, results, and learnings. Improve how we work: identify opportunities that protect profit, improve operational efficiency, and enhance sustainability; contribute to continuous improvement actions across the lab.

Typical day / ways of working

You’ll start with lab checks and safety routines, review the plan with your mentor, prepare materials and equipment, execute tests or synthesis runs, and capture data. You’ll meet regularly with R&D chemists to interpret results and plan next steps, and you’ll collaborate with colleagues across production, QA, EHS, and supply chain to keep projects moving.

Training & development

Your apprenticeship blends academic study with real‑world lab work. You’ll build capability in experimental design, data analysis, project management, and scientific communication—progressing from supporting lab operations to independently planning and running experiments in the second half of the programme. Alongside technical skills, you’ll develop essential soft skills such as teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and effective communication. Regular collaboration with colleagues and mentors will help you build confidence, resilience, and a proactive approach to learning and contributing within a dynamic R&D environment.

Training:
Apprentices work full-time whilst studying towards a BSc (Hons) Scientist (Chemical Science) degree from Manchester Metropolitan University, as well as a Level 6-degree apprenticeship Students study a tutor-supported e-distance learning curriculum and attend residential schools. The work-based projects, negotiated with employers, offer students the opportunity to apply their learning directly to their organisation The programme is primarily taught through tutor-supported online study, part-time over four years Apprentices will attend a two-day induction at the University to help them get to know each other and balance undergraduate study with working full-time They will also attend a week-long residential at our campus in central Manchester once a year, in addition to a two-day mini-residential in the first year

Training Outcome:

The possibility to be a R&D Graduate Chemist.

Employer Description:

At Incorez, our sole purpose is to make a real difference to the performance of our customers products. We started out in 1986. Back then, we were known as Industrial Copolymers Ltd, we changed our name in 2009 and have been expanding ever since. From our home in Preston, England we've grown to become a leading manufacturer of polyurethane and epoxy technology.
Since 2009 we've been proud to be part of the Sika group, working in partnership with an outstanding international company with an exceptional reputation in the construction industry.

At the Preston site, Incorez has research and development facilities alongside the manufacturing plant.

Working Hours :
Monday - Friday between 8am-4pm, with a 30-minute lunch break.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Listening skills