Paper & Board Principle Science Lead

Here at DS Smith, we are looking for an experienced Paper & Board Principle Science Lead to join our Group Research & Development Team.

About the role

The role will focus on Paper, Board and Box mechanics modelling and mechanical optimisation matters as well as general scientific design of experiment, modelling and evaluation capability. It will involve being a Project Manager and/or member in larger projects within Group R&D, as well as other key cross-divisional projects requiring comprehensive R&D/Technical knowledge. The successful candidate will be a member of the Paper & Board Development team within Group R&D, lead the structural mechanics sub-function and be responsible for the development, management, deployment and delivery of the Structural mechanics sub-function.

Reporting into the Paper & Board Development Director, as the successful candidate you will have in depth knowledge of the structural mechanic behaviours of Paper & Board, General R&D and Material Optimisation techniques.

Key responsibilities include -

• Driving the development of paper and packaging predictive tools. This involves leading development and corrections of predictive formulas and tools as well as initiating new packaging performance prediction calculations eg. material models based on new geometrical board constructions.

• Be the leader in describing the behaviours of paper, corrugated board and designs by using and developing FE modelling and structural mechanics equations in closed form

• You will provide scientific guidance and support to the business, in Group R&D, central functions and in packaging regions (material optimization leads).

• Assess technical feasibility of new technologies, tools and methods that potentially can bring a competitive advantage for DS Smith and customers and aligned with DS Smith Strategy.

• Active scouting of novel modelling technologies in packaging and adjacent areas to identify potential solutions for new market challenges in paper-based packaging.

• Identify opportunities for external collaboration with institutes, universities and others (eg. start-ups) based on technical and scientific assessment of the technology offers.

• Lead and supervise Master Thesis student work in scientific areas as they arise.

• You will also be accountable for HSER whilst at work, operating in line with company procedures to enable a safe working environment. To raise any unsafe acts seen immediately with individual(s) concerned and immediate reporting of health and safety incidents to management.

About you

• Specialist knowledge in Paper manufacture, Board and advanced structural Mechanics expertise are required. Examples of specific technical knowledge/experience - Transverse Shear Stiffness of Structural Core Sandwich/Non-linear material behaviours in structures/Analysis and Testing of Corrugated Board/Local buckling and collapse of corrugated board/ Strength Prediction Method for Corrugated Board Containers

• Sound understanding of material science and design of experiment

• Experience with relevant modelling and simulation software packages

• Phd in Structural Mechanics or comparable scientific background

• Proven experience in project management, project management skills

• Good communication skills, able to work in a systematic and rigorous way

• Works well with others and inspires them to a common purpose

• Good leadership and coaching skills with a proven ability to set a vision, manage change, challenge and ability to influence people at all levels of the organisation

• Fluent in English and another foreign language would be a plus but not necessary

About us

DS Smith are a leading provider of sustainable packaging solutions, paper products and recycling services in more than 30 different countries.  It’s a very exciting time to join, as we have committed to investing in our future across our strategic growth enablers within Innovation (R&D), Sustainability and Digital & Data.

“To fulfil our purpose of redefining packaging for a changing world, we aim to build a diverse, motivated, and engaged workforce. Our goal is to create a culture of inclusion where everyone is treated fairly, differences are valued, and everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

Our people come from diverse backgrounds, bring different perspectives, ideas and experiences to generate unique solutions focused on present and future sustainability challenges. We welcome all candidates to apply, even those not meeting all criteria.”