Polymer Chemist - Biobased Superabsorbent Polymer

Join to apply for the Polymer Chemist – Biobased Superabsorbent Polymer role at Mooncup Ltd.

Location: London

Salary: TBC

Company Overview

Mooncup began with a clear goal: to give people a healthier, sustainable way to manage their periods – no petroleum plastic, no irritants, no compromises. We launched the world’s first medical grade silicone menstrual cup, pioneering a movement in period care that put health and the planet first. Our vision is to be the world’s biggest absorbent hygiene brand.

Key Responsibilities

• We are seeking a hands‑on, detail‑oriented Polymer Chemist to join the founding team of our venture‑backed deep‑tech startup, developing a novel, patent‑pending biobased superabsorbent polymer.
• As a core technical hire, you will play a pivotal role in setting up and commissioning our laboratory and driving polymer R&D from concept to pilot scale.
• The ideal candidate has proven expertise in polymer synthesis and modification, particularly with natural polymers, and thrives in a practical lab environment.
• You will define experimental strategies, execute research, and help translate cutting‑edge technology into real‑world applications.

R&D Execution

• Strong knowledge of analytical techniques such as FTIR, NMR, DSC, TGA, GPC, rheology, surface analysis, swelling index testing, and gel strength evaluation to characterise polymers’ physical‑chemical properties and performances.
• Develop and characterise biobased polymers with attention to sustainability, biodegradability, and environmental impact.
• Assist in experimental design, method development, and formulation optimisation.
• Design and optimise polymerisation reactions and functionalisation strategies to achieve target molecular weights, cross‑link densities, and performance properties.
• Experience developing polymer blends, composites, or hydrogels, and tuning mechanical or functional properties for application.
• Perform application‑relevant performance tests (absorbency under load, retention, gel strength, viscosity, biodegradation).
• Analyse data and present insights to the Technical Lead to guide research priorities and timelines.

Data, Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain meticulous laboratory records, including notebooks, technical data logs, and experiment tracking.
• Support technical reporting for IP filings, investor updates, and grant applications.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety regulations (COSHH, risk assessments, waste disposal protocols).

Collaboration & Team Support

• Work collaboratively with the Technical Lead to support and execute research activities.
• Participate in lab meetings, troubleshooting sessions, and cross‑functional discussions around R&D milestones, technology validation and scale‑up planning.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• MSc or PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• 2+ years of hands‑on experience in polymer synthesis and modification, ideally involving natural polymers.
• Practical experience with analytical techniques such as NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, swelling measurements, and gel strength evaluation.
• Strong organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail in data management and experimental documentation.
• Proactive, reliable, and able to work independently while contributing effectively to a small, collaborative team.
• Enthusiasm for working in an early‑stage startup and building lab capabilities from the ground up.
• Ability to troubleshoot analytical instrumentation and develop new methods to characterise polymer properties.
• Comfortable working independently and taking ownership of lab processes while collaborating as part of a small technical team.
• Adapt to evolving project priorities and contribute to multiple facets of lab operations as the startup grows.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be joining a mission‑led company at the forefront of sustainable materials innovation. Your work will directly support the development of a biobased polymer with real‑world applications in hygiene, agriculture, and packaging.

Perks

• A job with real purpose, with a passionate team and high‑performance culture.
• 25 days holiday (excl. bank holidays).
• Company pension scheme.
• State‑of‑the‑art lab and facilities at Imperial.
• Flexible hours so you can start earlier or finish later to fit around your life.

Application Process

• Fill out application form.
• Short‑listed candidates will undergo an initial screening.
• First interview with the Technical Lead.
• Technical task covering lab experience and polymer chemistry synthesis knowledge, with a small section on project management.
• Second interview with the selected candidates, the Technical Lead and CEO.

&SISTERS Ltd is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment type: Full‑time

Job function: Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Industries: Wellness and Fitness Services