Materials Scientist - sustainable formulations and process development
Posted on: 17 March 2022
At Biophilica, we have developed a remarkably leather-like and completely plastic-free leather alternative called Treekind®. We are an agile, dynamic and rapidly growing startup that values collaboration, efficiency, problem-solving, creativity, and achieving our clearly defined goals. Our culture is optimistic, friendly, inclusive, transparent, and driven by sustainability. We won Manufacturing Futures 2021, Mills Fabrica Techstyle for Social Good 2021, a finalist in Drapers Sustainable Fashion Award 2021 and Microfibre Innovation Challenge 2022. Biophilica is part of the latest cohort of the LVMH’s Startup Accelerator. We are currently running a pilot with our previous accelerator, Fashion For Good.
We are looking for a materials scientist who is passionate about combining materials science, technology and sustainability to join Biophilica in London. You have an understanding of biopolymers, including coatings, and adhesives with experience with cellulose and other plant polymers. You will be integral in developing our plant-based materials with a set of unique environmental benefits.
Role:
Based in London, we are looking for a Chemistry or Material Science PhD or postdoc. You will be working with a driven team where innovation takes place. You will work on new ideas, cutting edge technology, early stage development, and much more. Weekly communication with an industrial research company and occasional travel to vendors is expected. As part of our team, you will play an integral role in developing innovative formulations, processes, and technologies. We aim to move materials rapidly from lab-scale to pilot plant and develop materials to meet market requirements. We expect the candidate to be knowledgeable in a wide range of techniques and methods used in conventional and green chemistry, and be able to adapt to the continuously evolving needs of the company.
This opportunity would suit a materials scientist or chemist interested in plant-based polymers and is looking for a chance to join an organisation that is developing the cutting edge of environmentally beneficial materials. The post holder can expect an innovative environment and will play a large role in equipping and expanding the production. This role suits someone with a creative and entrepreneurial mindset, who can take charge, be flexible, work independently but also collaboratively.
Responsibilities:
Ability to work on novel materials design, including plant-derived biopolymer chemistry and processing.
- Understanding of plant biopolymers such as polysaccharides (with a focus on cellulose and hemicellulose)
- Understanding of plant cells, lipids, cutin, and/or biopolymer chemistry (including composition, formation, stability and degradation pathways)
- Experience with a wide range of standard chemical and material analytical techniques
- Understanding of formulation development, process engineering and optimisation
- Perform, analyse and report standard chemical and mechanical testing
- Develop and implement quality control testing protocols
- Proven track record in rational, hypothesis-based experimental design, execution, and data analysis.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with the core team and external parties
- Comfortable working independently, in a collaborative team, and with external industrial research partners
- Team leadership experience is an advantage
- Available to travel within the UK on occasion, max 4 times per year (in accordance with Covid-19 travel guidance), with allocated travel budget
Requirements:
Candidates need a PhD degree, or postdoctoral studies in Chemistry, Materials Science or closely related field of study, with research experience in biopolymers/green chemistry. Knowledge of surface characterisation techniques, the analysis of the mechanical properties of polymers and the industrial manufacturing of biopolymers are valuable. Experience of process design, manufacturing scale-up and commercial production lines would be a significant advantage. Full driving license is a bonus but not required.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- Stock option plan available
- Travel budget for occasional off-site visits
- Work in an agile and focused environment
- Be part of a creative and supportive team
- Design the future of sustainable materials
- Be part of shaping the future of Biophilica
To apply, please send a cover letter, your CV and contact information for three professional references to hello@biophilica.co.uk