PRODUCT/PROCESS DEVELOPMENT SCIENTIST

Research and development scientists often work together, especially when manufacturing new products. Product or process development scientists are needed within all manufacturing industries to work alongside research scientists to create innovative products and manufacturing processes.

Product development scientists work in the design of new and innovative product ideas and scientific discoveries. This can involve all types of products from drugs and pharmaceuticals to paint and fizzy drinks. Product development scientist will either come up with the original idea, or will devise alternative methods of production to improve an existing product.

Process development scientists work to improve the performance of production systems, to increase their productivity and efficiency. This can involve creating new procedures or modifying existing systems. They will visit manufacturing sites of all types, monitoring the performance and profitability of new systems and making alterations and giving advice where necessary.

Development scientists can work across many different areas of manufacturing, including:

• Medicine
• Food
• Cosmetics
• Machinery
• Paints
• Textiles

Typical tasks of development scientists depend on whether they work in process or product development fields. Similarly, tasks vary depending on the area of manufacturing that they are employed in.

General tasks of both product and process development scientists could involve some of the following:

• Devising new products and processes, or modifying existing ones
• Planning, carrying out and monitoring trials in laboratories or factories
• Following test protocols and regulations
• Evaluating improvements in either profitability or performance
• Recording and analysing data
• Liaising with customers and clients about their requirements
• Overseeing the project through all development and production stages
• Attending conferences and presentations, keeping up-to-date with all advancements

It is likely that product/process development scientists will be supervising a couple of different projects simultaneously, as some can take a long time to see through.