What does your day-to-day work look like?

My work is split about fifty/fifty between the lab and my desk. In the lab, we do analyses to resolve specific questions and challenges about ink chemistry. For the desk part of my job, apart from writing lab reports, there is also a lot of interaction with people. We’re involved with a range of stakeholders at every stage of projects.

What do you love about your job?

Every day is different. I enjoy working on several different challenges at the same time. There are always new developments in ink design, and we get to use state-of-the-art analysis equipment to study complicated interactions. It is like solving a difficult puzzle, because often we need multiple analysis techniques to understand what is going on. This is why I collaborate closely with my colleagues: we need to put all the different pieces of the puzzle together. And there is a new puzzle every day.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned so far?

Working with people from different disciplines has given me fresh insights. For example, we work with the physical analysis group, but also with process engineers, mechanical engineers, the purchasing department and more. Everyone has a different viewpoint, but since we are all working towards a common goal you can learn a lot from others. Also, the company is very international. Working with people from different countries brings new insights and ideas.

What opportunities are there for career development?

Personally, I really love chemistry and being in the lab! Moving into a project lead or management role is not the only way to take the next step in a career at Canon Production Printing. Here, I also have the possibility to become a specialist and to stay on the research side.

What advice would you give to someone joining the company?

There are so many possibilities to learn and pursue different directions. Apart from technical knowledge, such as new analysis techniques or materials expertise, there is also a lot of emphasis on personal development. If you’re interested in exploring something, you just have to ask. So that’s the advice I would give: ask questions! People are always willing to help you.