Senior polymer scientist

FutureBio; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotechnology startup is seeking a Senior Polymer Scientist to develop and optimize recyclable and biodegradable plastics. This role offers scientific leadership and collaboration in a dynamic environment focused on sustainability. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. and experience in polymer R&D, contributing directly to innovative solutions for climate change.

Benefits

Stock options

Comprehensive insurance coverage

Unlimited paid time off

Sponsor H-1B transfer or O-1 visa application

Qualifications

• 2+ years of industrial experience in polymer R&D and processing.
• Strong background in polymer synthesis, formulation, compounding, and modification.

Responsibilities

• Lead the synthesis and scale-up of target plastic samples.
• Develop and oversee materials characterization testing.
• Coordinate and lead downstream processing for fermentation-derived materials.

Skills

Problem-Solving

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Engineering

Tools

TGA

DSC

FTIR

SEM

Job description

FutureBio is a biotechnology startup dedicated to developing and deploying innovative solutions to combat climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainability. We focus on the biomanufacturing of commodity chemicals from renewable biomass and waste feedstocks to create recyclable or biodegradable products—including plastics, flavors, and fragrances.

By combining strain engineering, metabolic engineering, protein engineering, fermentation, and materials science, we are building scalable, impactful technologies to drive the transition to a circular, low-carbon economy.

Position Overview

FutureBio is seeking a Senior Polymer Scientist who is passionate about environmental sustainability and has deep expertise in polymer synthesis, formulation, compounding, and engineering. You’ll work directly with executive leadership and multidisciplinary R&D teams to develop and optimize recyclable and biodegradable plastics derived from our biomanufactured chemicals.

This is a high-impact role with opportunities for scientific leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and direct contribution to commercialization efforts in a dynamic startup environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the synthesis and scale-up of target plastic samples using biomanufactured or chemically synthesized feedstocks.
• Develop, perform, and oversee materials characterization testing, including TGA, DSC, FTIR, tensile, flexural, hardness, MFI, SEM, and food safety evaluations, using third-party instrumentation.
• Analyze data and implement product engineering strategies to enhance polymer properties for industrial processing (injection molding, extrusion, etc.).
• Coordinate and lead downstream processing and scale-up efforts for fermentation-derived materials.
• Establish and manage the polymer chemistry laboratory within the early-stage biotech startup setting.
• Maintain rigorous experimental documentation and report progress regularly in team meetings.
• Stay informed by reviewing scientific literature and internal findings to generate and integrate new research ideas.
• Contribute to intellectual property generation and documentation.
• Foster a collaborative team environment and engage cross-functionally with protein engineers, fermentation scientists, and external partners.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 2+ years of industrial experience in polymer R&D and processing.
• Strong background in polymer synthesis, formulation, compounding, and modification.
• Experience with polymer processing methods including injection, compression, or extrusion molding.
• Deep understanding of the structure–property relationship in polymers.
• Demonstrated experience in material testing, data analysis, and developing commercial resins.
• Hands-on experience with scale-up and commercialization of plastic production.
• Excellent problem-solving, independent research, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting polymerization processes at scales exceeding 1 kg.
• Familiarity with bio-based or sustainable polymers such as recyclable or degradable plastics.
• Experience with dynamic / reversible polymer networks, including vitrimers, dynamic covalent polymers, TPEs, or TPUs.

Why Join Us :

• Be at the forefront of sustainable materials innovation.
• Collaborative and dynamic team environment.
• Competitive compensation and equity package.
• Opportunity to directly contribute to environmental sustainability through groundbreaking technology.
• Adaptability to the dynamic needs of a startup environment.

Compensation and Benefits

• Stock options
• Comprehensive insurance coverage, including health, dental, and vision
• Unlimited paid time off
• Sponsor H-1B transfer or O-1 visa application (if qualified)

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to [emailprotected] or apply directly through our LinkedIn job posting . We look forward to learning how your expertise can help shape a more sustainable future.

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