Principal Scientist in Polymer Development leading on the development of water soluble barriers and coatings for absorbent hygiene products.

Client Details

Innovative consumer technology start-up that is on a mission to free the world from permanent waste. Founded in 2017 and has grown naturally ever since, through innovation competitions and grants. Strategic investors brought in for VC backed pre-seed in 2019 and a seed round in late 2021. Flagship product now been released onto the market in January 2023!

Description

As a successful Principal Scientist in Polymer Development you will take a multifaceted role, and be involved in:

R&D

• Research and development of microplastic free & water dispersible polymers
• Performance optimisation of current biodegradable polymers and adhesives
• Design and validate new testing protocols for water dispersible absorbent hygiene products
• Documentation and interpretation of experiments
• Project management, risk assessments and budgeting
• Maintenance and qualification of laboratory equipment

Commercialisation

• Ensure the scalability of developments through scale up trials and testing to comply with market volumes and economics.
• Cross department collaboration throughout the project to support route to market
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements

Defensibility

• Lead prior art and freedom to operate searches with the support of IP lawyers
• Application and responses to searches and divisions

Other

• Advise on strategic growth and expansion into related segments and technologies
• Present and work with internal and external stakeholders
• Set & track OKRs and management of reports
• ESG reporting and risk management

Profile

To be a successful Principal Scientist in Polymer Development you will have/be:

• PhD or senior leadership position in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of material science, polymer chemistry, barriers and coating technologies.
• At least 8 years of experience in product development and innovation, preferably in the personal care or healthcare industry.
• Track record of developing and commercialising products in a regulated environment.
• Passionate about sustainability, including green chemistry design principles, life cycle analysis, biodegradation and environmental end of life.
• Responsible for project budgets of up to £1 million.
• Excellent oral and communication skills.
• Experience leading and managing research teams and projects.

Job Offer

The chance to join an exciting new start-up producing biodegradable consumer goods in a critical time for the business.

Contribute in a truly multifaceted role, with a massive amount of independence and responsibility to lead R&D strategy and build out your own R&D team moving forwards.

Negotiable salary based on experience.

Equity Stock Options

Hybrid working Scheme

Additional training budget, mental health support and financial planning scheme.