Application/Product Development Scientist / Senior Scientist in London

Thermulon is an impact-driven team of entrepreneurs, engineers, and scientists developing high-performance, fire-safe aerogel insulation materials. Aerogels are among the most insulating materials known to science and are expected to play a central role in the green transition, particularly in Electric Vehicles and Construction sectors. Founded in 2019, Thermulon is supported by notable venture capitalists such as Deep Science Ventures, Sustainable Ventures, and Sky Ocean Ventures, along with angel investors and crowdfunding initiatives. Our commitment to technological innovation and sustainability has been recognized by organizations like the Cleantech Group, Futurebuild, the Royal Society of Chemistry, and the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Based in our London labs, we seek an ambitious and talented individual to develop new aerogel insulation products for Electric Vehicles and Construction. As an application/product development scientist, you will create novel methodologies for integrating Thermulon’s aerogel powders into various end-user products such as boards, panels, foams, and blankets. You will collaborate closely with the Chemistry and Process teams, as well as Business Development, serving as a key technical contributor. Your responsibilities include designing, formulating, and demonstrating new applications through an agile, iterative process. The role requires flexibility across different chemistries and a willingness to learn and apply new knowledge from academic, industrial, and literature sources. This position offers the opportunity to develop intellectual property to enhance Thermulon’s market offerings.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of key applications for Thermulon aerogel, including designing, executing, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on experimental programs critical to the business.
• Utilize academic expertise and industrial knowledge to develop new product testing methodologies and laboratory capabilities for aerogel formulations into various formats (e.g., boards, panels, mats).
• Design and conduct research, experiments, and tests aimed at improving product performance and quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and achieve product development goals within set timelines.
• Analyze experimental data, generate reports and presentations for team members, senior management, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to the generation of protectable IP to facilitate product commercialization.

Requirements

We welcome applicants who may not meet all criteria but are motivated and eager to learn. If you possess most of the skills listed below, we encourage you to apply.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field (organic/polymer chemistry or material engineering) or MSc with 4+ years' experience in product development or formulation of materials, particularly in PU foam or related industrial settings.

Technical Skills

• Experience in R&D within organic/polymer chemistry or material engineering.
• Experience in industrial product development or formulation of polymeric foams, polyurethanes, polystyrenes, adhesives, or coatings.
• Proven laboratory experience in developing new products/formulations to meet customer requirements and prototype development within deadlines.
• Experience with 1K/2K resin chemistry development.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and report writing.
• Knowledge of insulation materials, manufacturing methodologies, and characterization techniques.
• Knowledge of aerogel materials and analysis techniques such as GPC, TGA, NMR, FTIR, and mechanical testing.

Personal Attributes

• Strong commitment to health and safety standards.
• Innovative problem solver with an interest in material or product development.
• Ability to design, execute, monitor, and report on R&D projects effectively.
• Quick learner with critical evaluation skills.
• Meticulous record-keeping.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, tailored to the audience.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks aligned with business needs.
• Enthusiastic about joining a fast-growing startup and contributing to its expansion.

Diversity and Inclusion

We particularly encourage applications from individuals underrepresented in deep tech and climate sectors, recognizing climate justice as a social and inclusion issue. We welcome diverse experiences and backgrounds.

Benefits

• Job Type: Full-time, London-based, permanent
• Salary: R&D Scientist: £37-47k / Senior R&D Scientist: £47-60k, based on experience
• Wellbeing: 30 days holiday, Flexible working outside core hours, Private Medical insurance for employees and dependents, £600 annual wellbeing allowance, Cycle-to-work scheme
• Life Events (post-probation): Enhanced pension contributions, Extended maternity/paternity leave, Support for major life events

Additional Details:

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Science