Senior Researcher (Membrane Science)

At Cellular Agriculture Ltd, we’re shaping the future of food by developing advanced biomanufacturing infrastructure for the cultivated food industry. Our goal is to lead the sector’s industrialisation by designing next-generation bioreactor platforms that will support the entire ecosystem, from startups to global manufacturers. By developing the technology to scale cultivated food production, we aim to help address some of the world’s most urgent challenges: food security, climate change and the sustainability of agriculture.

We’re a passionate team of scientists, engineers, and innovators who believe in a better way forward - where next-generation technologies meet real-world impact. If you’re inspired by bold ideas, driven by purpose, and excited to be part of a team shaping the future of food, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we are building the tools and systems that will make cultivated meat a viable, sustainable food source for communities around the globe. We are also deeply committed to inclusion and equity. We believe that diverse perspectives drive better decisions and stronger innovation. We’re cultivating a workplace culture where every team member feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute to our shared success. Everyone here has a voice—and we use it to build a better future.

What this role entails

• Objectives

• Develop innovative membrane solutions for bioprocess applications through collaboration with bioprocess engineers and biologists.
• Design and execute experimental plans to optimise existing membrane formulations and develop new membrane technologies.
• Contribute to safety, compliance, and operational excellence by supporting risk assessments, documentation, administrative duties, and a positive team culture.

• Selection criteria

• Experience

• PhD (or equivalent) in bioprocess, biochemical, chemical, or polymer engineering/chemistry, with specialist expertise in membrane fabrication and the underlying polymer/thermodynamic principles.
• Demonstrable industrially relevant experience in membrane/material development, including material tuning, functionalisation, and biocompatibility screening.

• Delivering for an organisation

• Strong practical problem-solving skills with independence in scientific thinking and experimental design.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively to deliver milestones and project objectives.
• Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage priorities and maintain accurate documentation.

• Team working

• Demonstrable ability to work with a diverse range of people, working towards a common goal in a multi-disciplinary environment.

• Expertise

• Membrane material tuning/functionalisation and biocompatibility screening.
• Strong proficiency in advanced materials and membrane characterisation techniques for evaluating performance and properties.
• Underpinning chemistry of polymers, and thermodynamics of membrane fabrication.

Working hours

This is a full-time onsite role, working 37 hours per week. Flexibility is required to meet business needs which will include early or late start times, and weekend work on a rota basis.

The Benefits

In addition to working in a world class facility based in the Corsham science park near Bath within a supportive and inclusive team, you will receive a highly competitive base salary, share options in a growing biotech enterprise, competitive holiday allowance and a fantastic benefits package including pension, Bupa medical cover and life assurance. You will have access to world-class training, development, and networking with organisations across cellular agriculture, and food systems.

Closing date: Monday 8th June

On site interviews to be held on: Tuesday 16th June