At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on research in designing and testing sustainable superabsorbent polymers.
- Company: Join an innovative Oxford-based startup focused on sustainable materials.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity options, health insurance, and 28 days paid holiday.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a creative environment with growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the fast-growing field of sustainable materials.
- Qualifications: PhD in Polymer Chemistry or related field; strong lab experience required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
A&B Smart Materials is an Oxford University–based materials science venture founded by Oxbridge graduates. We are pioneering the next generation of bio-based, biodegradable superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) to replace synthetic SAPs. SAPs are "magic-like" materials that absorb hundreds of times their weight in water. They are used primarily in hygiene (diapers, pads, cosmetics) and agriculture (soil enhancers), representing a $17.6B global market. With new EU regulations banning non-biodegradable SAPs in soils from 2028, there is an urgent demand for sustainable alternatives.
We are seeking a Junior Research Scientist with a strong foundation in polymer or materials chemistry to join our growing R&D team. You will play a key role in the design, synthesis, and characterisation of novel bio-based and biodegradable superabsorbent polymers, working closely with senior scientists and the CTO.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated early-career researcher to apply their academic expertise to industrial-scale challenges and help drive one of the most promising transitions in sustainable materials.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct hands-on experimental work in polymer synthesis, modification, and characterisation.
- Design, plan, and execute lab experiments, taking ownership of research direction and outcomes.
- Analyse and interpret data to optimise SAP performance, absorption capacity, and biodegradability.
- Contribute to intellectual property development, literature reviews, and technical documentation.
- Collaborate with the R&D team to test, validate, and iterate material formulations.
- Support early-stage scale-up and application testing as the technology progresses toward commercialisation.
Qualifications:
- PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Biopolymers, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
- 0–2 years' postdoctoral or industrial experience.
- Strong wet lab experience and familiarity with polymer synthesis, hydrogels, or crosslinked materials.
- A creative and rigorous scientific mindset, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary research environment.
Desired Experience (Nice to Have):
- Has worked on sustainable superabsorbent polymers (SAPs).
- Experience with biopolymers such as cellulose, starch, alginate, or chitosan.
- Previous hydrogel research or formulation experience.
- Exposure to applications in the hygiene (diapers, menstrual pads) or agriculture industries.
- Experience integrating AI or data-driven tools in materials design or optimisation workflows.
- Familiarity with intellectual property (IP) generation or patent preparation.
- Previous involvement in an entrepreneurial or startup environment.
Competitive compensation package with equity, so you share directly in the company's success. Significant long-term upside as the company scales in a rapidly growing global market. Comprehensive health insurance and wellbeing package. 28 days of paid holiday annually. Flexible working hours with hybrid (on-site + remote) options. The chance to help shape the global future of sustainable SAPs in a company building momentum with leading investors, accelerators, and awards. A creative, fast-moving environment where your work will have a direct impact on products, IP, and company growth.
At A&B Smart Materials, we are looking for more than capability — we are looking for curiosity, creativity, and commitment. If you are an ambitious scientist eager to apply your skills to one of the fastest-growing areas of sustainable materials innovation, we want to hear from you.
Application Form: https://forms.gle/4UQXPrV2qHkMqMCb9
Recruitment email: recruitment@absmartmaterials.com
Junior Research Chemist/Scientist (Sustainable Superabsorbent Polymers) in Oxford employer: A&B Smart Materials
A&B Smart Materials is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable materials innovation in Oxford. With a collaborative and results-oriented startup culture, employees enjoy competitive remuneration, meaningful equity, and significant influence over product development and technical strategy. The company fosters rapid personal and professional growth, supported by world-class investors and advisors, while contributing to a mission that aims to transform a global industry and make a lasting environmental impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Research Chemist/Scientist (Sustainable Superabsorbent Polymers) in Oxford
✨Get Involved in the Chemistry Community
Engage with local chemistry societies and attend their events. Whether it's a conference or a seminar, these gatherings can be gold mines for networking and spotting job openings at companies like A&B Smart Materials. Plus, being face-to-face with industry professionals can leave a lasting impression!
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Create a professional online portfolio that highlights your chemistry projects or research. This could be a blog or a simple website that showcases your skills and experience. When you apply to A&B Smart Materials, you want them to see what you can do beyond the CV.
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We think you need these skills to ace Junior Research Chemist/Scientist (Sustainable Superabsorbent Polymers) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:When applying for a chemistry position, make sure to highlight any lab experience you've got. Mention specific techniques and instruments you've worked with, as they can set you apart from other candidates. For us, demonstrating your practical skills is as important as your theoretical knowledge!
Tailor Your CV to Chemistry:It's essential to structure your CV in a way that’s appealing for a chemistry role. Highlight relevant projects, research publications, and coursework that demonstrate your expertise. If you’ve completed specific certifications, make sure to list those as well—they can really boost your chances!
Craft a Chemistry-Focused Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your enthusiasm for the field of chemistry and why you want to work at A&B Smart Materials. Talk about any research or projects that inspire you, and express your willingness to contribute to the team. We love seeing genuine passion for chemistry in applications!
Include Relevant References:Since chemistry roles can be quite specific, having reference letters from professors or previous employers in the field can be a huge plus. Make sure to include contacts who can vouch for your skills and dedication, as it adds credibility to your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at A&B Smart Materials
✨Know Your Experiments
Get ready to chat about your hands-on experience in the lab. We should be prepared to discuss specific experiments we've conducted, the results, and any challenges we faced. This shows them we don't just know the theory but can apply it in practice!
✨Master the Technical Speak
Brush up on the relevant terminology and concepts in chemistry. Make sure we can discuss different chemical processes, analytical techniques, and safety protocols fluently, as they might throw some technical questions our way. Being precise and confident can really set us apart!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make a portfolio showcasing our best lab work and any research projects we've been involved in. It's a great way to demonstrate our skills and passion for chemistry. We should tailor it to highlight the aspects most relevant to A&B Smart Materials and the Junior Research Chemist/Scientist (Sustainable Superabsorbent Polymers) role.
✨Be Ready for Problem Solving
Expect some scenario-based questions where we might need to solve chemical problems on the spot. They could ask about unexpected results or how to improve a process. Let's practice thinking on our feet and explaining our thought process clearly!
