At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our R&D team to develop innovative plant-based materials and conduct laboratory testing.
- Company: Biophilica, an award-winning UK materials technology company focused on sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for scientific publications.
- Other info: Dynamic start-up atmosphere with potential for contract extension based on project funding.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable materials and work with leading industrial partners.
- Qualifications: Degree or experience in Materials Science, Chemistry, or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
- Research Materials Scientist / Laboratory Technologist – Sustainable Materials
- 11-Month Fixed-Term Contract
Location
- London, UK
- Join Biophilica and Help Shape the Future of Sustainable Materials
Biophilica is an award-winning UK materials technology company developing high-performance, plant-based alternatives to fossil-derived plastics, coatings and adhesives for applications spanning fashion, consumer products, packaging and industrial sectors.
We are seeking an enthusiastic Materials Scientist or Research Technician to join us on a 11-month fixed-term contract.
The successful candidate will play a central role in a newly funded research programme focused on the development and characterisation of bio-based adhesive and coating systems.
This is an exciting opportunity to work on innovative sustainable materials, undertaking formulation development, sample manufacture and laboratory testing while contributing to technologies with the potential to reduce reliance on fossil-derived materials.
About Biophilica
Biophilica is developing a new generation of high-performance, plant-based materials designed to replace leather, plastics, coatings and adhesives.
Our work combines green chemistry, materials science and process innovation to create commercially viable materials with a significantly reduced environmental footprint.
We work closely with leading industrial partners, universities and research organisations to translate laboratory innovation into real-world products.
Recent achievements include
- Cartier Women's Initiative – European Winner (2024)
- Fashion for Good Innovation Programme
- LVMH Startup Accelerator
- Pilot programmes with leading international brands
- Demonstration-scale manufacturing and industrial scale-up projects
- Multiple Innovate UK-funded research programmes
About the Role
Working within Biophilica's R&D team, you will undertake much of the practical laboratory work associated with our funded research programmes.
The role will focus on developing and evaluating plant-based adhesive, coating and polymer systems through formulation preparation, laboratory-scale sample manufacture and mechanical testing.
You will play an important role in generating high-quality experimental data that supports both product development and collaborative research projects.
Working closely with experienced materials scientists, you will gain exposure to formulation science, experimental design, materials characterisation and process development within a dynamic start-up environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare plant-based polymer formulations, adhesives and coating systems.
- Manufacture laboratory-scale samples using established processing methods.
- Undertake mechanical testing, including adhesion, tensile and flexural assessments where appropriate.
- Carry out surface characterisation and environmental durability testing.
- Prepare samples for external testing with research partners and accredited laboratories.
- Record, organise and quality-check experimental data using established laboratory procedures.
- Support Design of Experiments (Do E) programmes and experimental planning.
- Assist in developing and maintaining laboratory procedures and standard operating procedures.
- Maintain laboratory equipment, consumables and good laboratory practice.
- Collaborate with industrial partners, suppliers and research organisations.
- Contribute to technical reports, presentations and project documentation.
What We're Looking For
We welcome applications from candidates with a degree, MSc, or equivalent industrial experience in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
Essential
- Practical laboratory experience with materials, polymers, coatings, or formulated products
- Experience preparing and testing experimental materials in an efficient manner
- Strong attention to detail and excellent laboratory record keeping
- Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple experimental activities
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a small multidisciplinary team
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Desirable
- Experience with bio-based or biodegradable materials
- Knowledge of polymer formulation or coating technologies
- Experience of mechanical, adhesion or surface characterisation testing
- Familiarity with Design of Experiments (Do E)
- Experience of laboratory data management and statistical analysis
- Previous experience within industrial R&D or a technology start-up
What We Offer
- 11-month fixed-term appointment supporting an exciting programme of sustainable materials research.
- Competitive salary, dependent upon experience.
- The opportunity to work on innovative plant-based materials with real commercial applications.
- Collaboration with leading industrial partners, universities and research organisations.
- A collaborative, agile and supportive working environment where your contribution will have a direct impact.
- Opportunities to contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations and future research programmes.
- Experience working at the interface between materials science, sustainability and emerging technologies.
- While the appointment is initially offered as a 12-month fixed-term contract linked to funded research programmes, there is potential for extension subject to future project funding and company growth.
Why Join Biophilica?
At Biophilica, you won't be a small part of a large organisation – you'll play a key role in developing technologies that have the potential to replace fossil-derived materials across multiple industries.
We are a collaborative, ambitious team where ideas are encouraged, innovation is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution.
If you enjoy practical laboratory work, solving challenging scientific problems, and seeing your research translated into real-world products, we'd love to hear from you.
Research Materials Scientist / Laboratory Technologist – Sustainable Materials in London employer: Biophilica
Biophilica is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, where your contributions directly impact the development of sustainable materials. Located in London, you will have the opportunity to work alongside leading industrial partners and research organisations, gaining invaluable experience in a dynamic start-up environment. With a focus on employee growth, Biophilica offers opportunities for scientific publications and conference presentations, making it an ideal place for those passionate about sustainability and materials science.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Materials Scientist / Laboratory Technologist – Sustainable Materials in London
✨Join Biotechnology Meetups
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✨Apply Directly on Our Website
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Materials Scientist / Laboratory Technologist – Sustainable Materials in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Relevant Lab Skills:In the biotech world, your lab skills are paramount. Make sure your CV highlights specific techniques and equipment you’ve used, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, or cell culture. This will give us a clear picture of what you can bring to Biophilica as a temporary teammate.
Highlight Your Research Experience:If you’ve worked on any research projects — whether during your studies or in previous positions — make sure to detail these in your application. Include the objective, your role, and what you achieved. This will help us see your potential and fit for the temporary position at Biophilica.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Especially for a temporary role, we want to see a clear and focused application. Tailor your CV and cover letter to emphasise the qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the biotech field and the specific role at Biophilica. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and capable.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since it’s a temporary role, let us know right away when you’re available to start and how long you can commit. Include this in your cover letter — this kind of transparency saves us all time and helps us find the right fit quickly at Biophilica.
How to prepare for a job interview at Biophilica
✨Brush Up on Your Biotech Basics
Understanding the fundamental concepts in biotechnology is crucial. Be ready to discuss core topics like genetics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, especially if you're asked technical questions. We suggest revisiting your coursework or recent projects to refresh your memory.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, they’re likely looking for someone who can jump in and get up to speed quickly. Share experiences where you’ve adapted to new environments, tools, or teams in a short space of time. It shows you're ready to tackle the challenge head-on!
✨Emphasise Your Lab Experience
If you’ve got hands-on experience in lab settings, now’s the time to showcase it. Talk about specific techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, and any relevant safety protocols you’ve followed. These details help paint you as an effective team member from day one.
✨Be Prepared to Explain Your Passion
Hiring managers want to see your motivation, especially for a temporary position in a fast-paced field like biotechnology. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the industry, your career goals, and how this role at Biophilica aligns with them. It’s all about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but a stepping stone in your biotech journey.
