At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in developing innovative plant-based materials and conduct exciting laboratory research.
- 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 culture with potential for contract extension based on project funding.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable materials and work with leading industrial partners.
- Qualifications: Degree or MSc in Materials Science, Polymer Science, or related field; practical lab experience required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
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 an 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.
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.
- 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 (DoE) 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.
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.
- 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.
- Knowledge of polymer formulation or coating technologies.
- Experience of mechanical, adhesion or surface characterisation testing.
- Experience of laboratory data management and statistical analysis.
- Previous experience within industrial R&D or a technology start-up.
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.
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 Mitcham 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 Mitcham
✨Leverage University Connections
If you're still at uni or have recently graduated, tap into your university's career services and research departments. They often have leads on temporary research roles, internships, or projects that haven’t been widely advertised yet!
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Join online forums and local meetups specific to your research area. Platforms like ResearchGate or specific Facebook groups can be goldmines for finding short-term research opportunities and connecting with fellow researchers who might know of openings.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a professional portfolio showcasing your research work or projects. This doesn’t have to be fancy; a simple website or a well-organised LinkedIn profile can make you stand out to potential employers like Biophilica.
✨Apply through Our Website!
Remember to check out the openings on our website. Applying directly for roles like the Research Materials Scientist / Laboratory Technologist - Sustainable Materials at Biophilica shows your enthusiasm and makes you more visible to hiring managers.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Materials Scientist / Laboratory Technologist - Sustainable Materials in Mitcham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Research Skills:For a temporary role in scientific research, it’s key to highlight your hands-on experience and skills. Use your CV to detail any relevant projects or experiments you’ve worked on, showcasing your problem-solving abilities and techniques you've mastered. Don’t forget to mention any lab techniques or tools that you’re familiar with – this can really set you apart!
Highlight Your Adaptability:Since this is a temporary position, employers like Biophilica will want to see that you can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, emphasise your ability to quickly grasp new concepts and fit in with diverse teams. Give examples of past experiences where you had to adapt swiftly, as it shows you’re ready for any challenges the research might throw at you.
Academic Credentials Matter:Make sure your academic background shines through, especially any relevant degrees, certifications, or publications. If you’ve been involved in conducting research, definitely bring that up! It’s important to demonstrate your theoretical foundations and any formal recognitions you've received in the scientific field.
Include References from Previous Researchers:Having strong references can make all the difference in a temporary role in scientific research. If you can, include references from previous supervisors or professors who can vouch for your research capabilities and work ethic. This adds credibility to your application and gives Biophilica assurance of your skills and professional behaviour.
How to prepare for a job interview at Biophilica
✨Understand the Research Landscape
Dive deep into the specific area of scientific research that Biophilica focuses on. Whether it's biotech or environmental sciences, familiarise yourself with recent publications and breakthroughs. This shows that you're not just interested in the role, but you're genuinely engaged with the field.
✨Don't Skip the Technical Skills
As a temporary hire, you might be expected to hit the ground running. Be ready to discuss specific techniques or tools you’ve used, like statistical software or lab equipment. Practise explaining your experience in a clear, structured way so the interviewers can grasp your skills right away.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Temporary roles often require us to adapt quickly to new protocols and projects. Be prepared to share examples of how you've managed shifting priorities or learned new methodologies on the fly. This will help demonstrate that you're a quick learner who can contribute immediately.
✨Bring Your Best Work to the Table
Even if this is a temporary gig, showcase any relevant projects or research you've completed. If you have a portfolio, make it succinct yet impactful. Showcasing tangible results can leave a lasting impression on the interviewers at Biophilica.
