Calum Hume

Results-driven Research and Development Chemist with five years of industrial experience in the lubricants sector, supported by a completed degree apprenticeship in Chemical Science. Proven track record of delivering commercially focused formulation and development projects, including leading an independent, business-critical dissertation with measurable impact. Possesses strong expertise in lubricant formulation, performance testing, and scale-up, with in-depth knowledge of base oils, additive technologies, and tribological principles.

Experienced in supporting production operations, resolving manufacturing challenges through root cause analysis, and contributing to continuous improvement across both R&D and plant environments. An ISO-trained internal auditor with a solid understanding of quality and environmental management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001), bringing a structured and compliance-driven approach to development work. A proactive and adaptable professional, capable of leading projects, influencing stakeholders, and delivering high-quality technical solutions in fast-paced industrial settings.

Now seeking to contribute at a Senior Product Development Chemist level, driving innovation and product performance.

Research and Development Chemist (formerly Laboratory Scientist Apprentice) (2021-08 – Present)

• Design and develop lubricant formulations to meet performance, regulatory, and customer-specific requirements across multiple application areas
• Lead and deliver R&D projects from concept through to production scale-up, including a business-driven dissertation project with direct commercial impact
• Conduct detailed performance testing, including physical, chemical, and tribological analysis, ensuring compliance with industry standards and specifications
• Support successful scale-up of formulations into manufacturing, working closely with production teams to ensure efficient implementation
• Investigate and resolve production and formulation issues through structured root cause analysis, improving product consistency and operational efficiency
• Collaborate cross-functionally with production, quality, and commercial teams to support product development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Maintain compliance with health, safety, environmental, and quality standards within both laboratory and plant environments
• Contribute as an ISO-trained internal auditor, supporting audits and continuous improvement of quality and environmental management systems (ISO 9001, ISO 14001)
• Manage laboratory procurement activities, including sourcing and purchasing equipment and materials to support R&D and quality control operations
• Prepare and coordinate shipment of samples, including certification in the transport of dangerous goods by air (IATA)
• Provide operational support to Quality Control, including a six-month secondment, ensuring continuity of testing and production support during periods of absence

Part-Time Staff at Steadfast Engineering Co Ltd (2019 – 2021)

• Supported manufacturing operations within a fast-paced engineering environment, working to tight production deadlines
• Assisted in CNC machining processes, including loading materials and supporting production of specialised components
• Contributed to assembly and production activities in line with bespoke technical specifications and customer requirements
• Gained practical understanding of metalworking fluid performance in real-world applications, including its impact on tool life and product quality

BSc (Hons) in Chemical Science – Manchester Metropolitan University (2021 – 2025)

End Point Assessment in Chemical Science – Manchester Metropolitan University (2021 – 2025)

GCSEs