R&D Industrial Placement – Automating Data Acquisition

Introduction

AkzoNobel is a global leader in paints and coatings, operates in over 150 countries, is home to well-known brands such as Dulux, Sickens and International and has been awarded Top Employer status in the UK and Europe.

More than 200 R&D scientists work at our Felling, Gateshead laboratories in support of business units including our Marine, Protective and Yacht business, in which this placement is situated. The MPY R&D teams use a wide array of scientific equipment following established industry standard procedures and when developing new or enhanced test methods for coating performance analysis.  This role is about building automation into our laboratory and data acquisition practices and will integrate into ongoing campaigns to leverage data across our global R&D processes for improved insight and efficiency.  

 The job scope includes developing data acquisition tools (hardware) and integration into data platforms (coding/programming).  You will work alongside a diverse team of laboratory scientists (chemists, materials scientists, biologists, chemical engineers and hydrodynamicists) and our Data & Digital team (data scientists, analysts, and software engineers).

This industrial placement is ideal for students in disciplines such as engineering, robotics, electronics, experimental science, computer science, and those with practical experience of building instruments, computers or sensor systems (e.g. Arduino / Raspberry Pi projects). 

What will I be doing?

Collaborative work with laboratory scientists to learn to operate experimental equipment and systems best suited to automated data acquisition.

Collaborative work with Data & Digital team to map digital endpoints for the experimental data.

Engineering the connections between the lab kit and data endpoints (ranging from simple coding scripts to building sensor driven data acquisition systems from off the shelf components).

Academic requirements:

You will be working towards a Science, Technology or Engineering related degree, that offers you the option of taking a Year in Industry.

Additional requirements:

• Experience of programming (e.g. Python, R, MATLAB, Labview, C++).

• Practical experience building sensor projects (e.g. Arduino, Raspberry Pi projects, etc.).

• Experience of laboratory work and laboratory health and safety practices would be beneficial.

• Good at following procedures & working safely.

• An eye for detail, innovation and an effective team worker.

• Has ideas with the energy and determination to make them happen.

• Excellent communication & interpersonal skills.

• Wants to work in an international environment.

• Enjoys a collaborative working environment where supporting colleagues is key.

What Is in It for You 

We offer great personal development opportunities and roles with breadth, depth of scope and impact. We also offer comprehensive packages including:

• Competitive Salary (negotiable)

• 25 days holiday excluding bank holidays

• Income protection

• Staff discount at Dulux Decorator Centre stores

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Employee Life Assurance

• Company pension

• Adaptable benefits scheme offering benefits including retail card, dental cover and more!

How to Apply 

Apply online via the link below and we will get back to you.

We have been inventing the future for more than two centuries and need people like you to be part of the team.

We are advocates of a healthy work life balance and mental wellbeing. We may consider adaptable working for this role.

Applications close 24th November 2025. First stage interviews to be held in November followed by an assessment centre.

*Restrictions apply