Materiom
Research Scientist - Natural Polymers and Bio-Based Materials
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Research Scientist - Natural Polymers and Bio-Based Materials
Research Scientist (Bio-Based Materials) at Materiom Location: London, UK | Role Type: Full-time, on-site | Salary Range: £40K–£55K
About Materiom
Materiom is a non-profit tech startup with a mission to accelerate the adoption of bio-based materials for net-positive environmental impact. Our open platform, the Materiom Commons, provides a global database of material formulations (used by over 20,000+ scientists), while our data-driven research and AI tools enable design, prototyping, and manufacturing of sustainable materials.
We’re a collaborative, diverse team blending:
- Materials science & polymers
- AI/ML and data pipelines
- Software & modelling expertise
Our work sits at the intersection of wet labs, predictive modelling, and open innovation—where experimental rigor meets impact at scale.
About the Role
We’re seeking a hands-on Research Scientist to lead automated experimental workflows in our lab. This role bridges polymer formulation, high-throughput experimentation, and AI-driven discovery—generating high-quality data that powers our machine learning models. You’ll design structured experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, and build collaborative ties between physical characterisations and computational predictions.
Key Focus Areas:
- Experimentation & Formulation: Developing replicates of polymer dispersions/solutions; characterising rheology via FTIR, UV/Vis spectroscopy, and inductively coupled plasma (ICP).
- Automation & High-Throughput: Writing/developing Python scripts for automated liquid-handling platforms, debugging orchestration bugs.
- Data-Driven Science: Pushing into active learning/AI workflows—translating model suggestions into experiments and improving algorithms with experimental feedback.
- Reproducibility & Collaboration: Documenting protocols rigorously; partnering with internal ML engineers, material scientists, and external collaborators.
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Responsibilities
Experimental & Technical Core
- Design and execute lab-scale formula dispensations (dispersions, solutions) across bio-based polymers.
- Characterise materials using:
- Rheological analysis (viscosity behaviour, phase transitions)
- Optical/spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, UV/Vis)
- Stability, viscometry uphill properties (pH, benchmarks)
- ICP analysis for molecular structure mapping
- Operate automated hardware/labware (e.g., high-throughput magnetics systems) to accelerate volume experiments.
- Scale production to semi-industrial pre-test batches.
- Establish protocols for obtaining precise, comparable data across repetitions.
Data & Model Integration
- Feed high-quality, clean datasets into ML model training/pipelines.
- Interpret theory–experiment mismatches (e.g., liquid – powder behaviour, heat changes) to inform model adjustments.
- Generate data tidying protocols that allow easy integration with external API-based infrastructure.
Lab Operations & Collaboration
- Calibrate/maintain instruments (FTIR, rheometers, volumetric dispensers).
- Safety compliance: Follow GB-EHS guidelines; train junior lab members.
- Present findings in team updates, advisory councils, and community workshops (e.g., NewSchool Initiative).
Requirements
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Essential
- PhD OR MSc in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering (or closely allied field).
- Bet-lab experience with polymers—including:
- Sample preparation/characterisation (wet/bio-based/natural systems).
- Documentation of protocols/data trends.
- Technical ability to:
- Prioritise hazmat cost-effectiveness vs. ambitions.
- Contribute to dynamic problem-solving in research-to-generation phase.
- DoE mindset: Structured experimentation to minimise redundancies.
Preferred but Welcomed
- Industry experience (startup/corporate) in bio-based/natural polymers.
- Automation/scripting background:
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- Fit for global communication policy: Teamwork with online/remote stakeholders.
Note: We value actual hands-on lab expertise above other degrees oronanometric ch.
What We Offer
Career & Growth
- Annual £40K–£55K salary (with correct nemerate).
- Performance-based annual bonuses.
- £1,000+ learning stipend grant (20% annual).
- Team retreats/international immersion week.
Culture & Policy
- 37 days/h vacation (full-time) + UK public holidays.
- Flexible/a-synchronous working for chemists in wide-geographic locations.
- Scottish/English hybrid hybrid subgroups offer new data operable wagon.
Materiom is equity-neutral and zero-bornto pill. You’re in: recent graduate or “turn the corner” on an active career. To apply, upload your current CV a detailed cover email (two paragraphs max; the second Focusing on UAU/PAF knowledge).
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