Research Scientist (Fibre Development)

ZipRecruiter; Moreton-in-Marsh; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering climate tech start-up seeks a materials scientist to join their team, contributing to the development of innovative fibre production methods. This role involves leading laboratory processes, managing projects, and collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team to drive R&D efforts. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in materials science or chemistry, with a passion for sustainability and innovation in tackling the Climate Emergency.

Qualifications

• BSc in Chemistry, Materials Science or related discipline preferred.
• Experience in developing laboratory experiments.
• Knowledge in polymer processing is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead fibre processing and laboratory experimentation.
• Generate plans for experiments to support R&D.
• Collaborate with partners for research and trials.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Creativity

IT literacy

Team collaboration

Education

BSc in a science

Job description

Job DescriptionJob description

About us

Grouse Fibre is an early-stage climate tech start-up pushing the boundaries of the future of materials. We have ambitious aims to build a fibre production platform that can valorise materials into useful fibres for a range of applications. In order to realise this goal, we’re hiring mission-driven scientists and engineers who want to make a real tangible impact on the fields of material science and regenerative agriculture.

What will you do?

You’ll be a key early hire working closely with the founding team to drive and scale the technical development, with a focus on product and the leap from lab to commercial demonstrator.

The ideal candidate will bring a broad materials or chemistry background and have previous experience building pilot projects from the ground up. You’ll need to be comfortable operating across the business from hard science, process engineering, co-ordinating external contractors and practical hands-on expertise. You’ll primarily be based at our workshop/office on a farm near Shipston-on-Stour. From time to time, you’ll need to travel to support ongoing projects in Scotland and the East of England.

Responsibilities

• Be the expert in fibre processing and lead on wet spinning
• Generate plans for experiments and trials to support our R&D roadmap
• Lead on the laboratory experimentation process and the of prototypes and samples
• Work with customers to develop research plans for commission trials and then deliver the project in a timely and competent manner
• Take responsibility for the safe and efficient operation of the laboratory and workshop
• Support on-going projects and collaborate with trial partners to evaluate materials on-site
• Record and analyse data sets and disseminate results to your colleagues and stakeholders
• Contribute to the overall success of the business which could include attending customer trials, writing grant applications and implementing ideas.

Qualifications and Experience

• BSc in a science with a good academic record. We are open to the exact field of study but Chemistry, Materials Science or related discipline would be an advantage.
• Knowledgeable on novel material creation (ideally fibres) and developing laboratory experiments to create first-of-kind materials.
• Experience in drafting patent applications and creating IP (or an interest in doing so).
• Excellent IT literacy and and proficiency with spreadsheet software (Excel and Google Sheets).
• Willingness to adapt your role to support the evolving needs of the business and take on additional tasks and responsibilities as become necessary (e.g. project management, marketing, on-site work).
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and creativity in addressing design challenges, turning obstacles into opportunities for innovation and lean design solutions.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams - including colleagues, external consultants, and customer-stakeholders - ensuring ideas and solutions are shared and refined collaboratively.
• Highly self-motivated, adaptable and able to manage varied and rapidly evolving project priorities and workload.
• A passion for sustainability and a strong desire to contribute positively towards addressing the Climate Emergency.
• Demonstrable experience in polymer processing and formation (Desirable). Hands-on experience in synthesis or production will be an advantage.
• Delivery of externally funded projects i.e Innovate UK. ESPRC, Horizon2020 (Desirable)
• Experience of working within an early stage start-up (Desirable)
• Experience of professional horticulture and growing media (Desirable)

EDI

Grouse Fibre is committed to promoting equal opportunities and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively seek to attract and retain a diverse workforce as we believe that drives innovation, enhances collaboration, and enables us to better understand and meet the needs of our employees, clients, and stakeholders. Therefore, we actively encourage applications from individuals with characteristics that are underrepresented in the construction industry.

Application

If you meet the above criteria, please send a CV to us through the Indeed platform. If you are a potential fit for the business we will follow-up with some questions and arrange a call.

*If you don't have all the above, but think you would be a great candidate - please send us a CV and a cover letter explaining what else you bring*

If you have any questions please send us a message through LinkedIn.