Research Materials Scientist / Laboratory Technologist – Sustainable Materials

Research Materials Scientist / Laboratory Technologist – Sustainable Materials

11-Month Fixed-Term Contract

Start Date: October 1, 2026

Location: London, UK

Join Biophilica and Help Shape the Future of Sustainable Materials

Biophilica is an award-winning UK materials technology company developing high-performance, plant-based alternatives to fossil-derived plastics, coatings and adhesives for applications spanning fashion, consumer products, packaging and industrial sectors.

We are seeking an enthusiastic Materials Scientist or Research Technician to join us on a 11-month fixed-term contract. The successful candidate will play a central role in a newly funded research programme focused on the development and characterisation of bio-based adhesive and coating systems.

This is an exciting opportunity to work on innovative sustainable materials, undertaking formulation development, sample manufacture and laboratory testing while contributing to technologies with the potential to reduce reliance on fossil-derived materials.

About Biophilica

Biophilica is developing a new generation of high-performance, plant-based materials designed to replace leather, plastics, coatings and adhesives. Our work combines green chemistry, materials science and process innovation to create commercially viable materials with a significantly reduced environmental footprint.

We work closely with leading industrial partners, universities and research organisations to translate laboratory innovation into real-world products.

Recent achievements include

• Cartier Women's Initiative – European Winner (2024)
• Fashion for Good Innovation Programme
• LVMH Startup Accelerator
• Pilot programmes with leading international brands
• Demonstration-scale manufacturing and industrial scale-up projects
• Multiple Innovate UK-funded research programmes

About the Role

Working within Biophilica's R&D team, you will undertake much of the practical laboratory work associated with our funded research programmes. The role will focus on developing and evaluating plant-based adhesive, coating and polymer systems through formulation preparation, laboratory-scale sample manufacture and mechanical testing.

You will play an important role in generating high-quality experimental data that supports both product development and collaborative research projects. Working closely with experienced materials scientists, you will gain exposure to formulation science, experimental design, materials characterisation and process development within a dynamic start-up environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare plant-based polymer formulations, adhesives and coating systems.
• Manufacture laboratory-scale samples using established processing methods.
• Undertake mechanical testing, including adhesion, tensile and flexural assessments where appropriate.
• Carry out surface characterisation and environmental durability testing.
• Prepare samples for external testing with research partners and accredited laboratories.
• Record, organise and quality-check experimental data using established laboratory procedures.
• Support Design of Experiments (DoE) programmes and experimental planning.
• Assist in developing and maintaining laboratory procedures and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, consumables and good laboratory practice.
• Collaborate with industrial partners, suppliers and research organisations.
• Contribute to technical reports, presentations and project documentation.

What We're Looking For

We welcome applications from candidates with a degree, MSc, or equivalent industrial experience in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.

Essential

• Practical laboratory experience with materials, polymers, coatings, or formulated products
• Experience preparing and testing experimental materials in an efficient manner
• Strong attention to detail and excellent laboratory record keeping
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple experimental activities
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a small multidisciplinary team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Desirable

• Experience with bio-based or biodegradable materials
• Knowledge of polymer formulation or coating technologies
• Experience of mechanical, adhesion or surface characterisation testing
• Familiarity with Design of Experiments (DoE)
• Experience of laboratory data management and statistical analysis
• Previous experience within industrial R&D or a technology start-up

What We Offer

• 11-month fixed-term appointment supporting an exciting programme of sustainable materials research.
• Competitive salary, dependent upon experience.
• The opportunity to work on innovative plant-based materials with real commercial applications.
• Collaboration with leading industrial partners, universities and research organisations.
• A collaborative, agile and supportive working environment where your contribution will have a direct impact.
• Opportunities to contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations and future research programmes.
• Experience working at the interface between materials science, sustainability and emerging technologies.
• While the appointment is initially offered as a 12-month fixed-term contract linked to funded research programmes, there is potential for extension subject to future project funding and company growth.

Why Join Biophilica?

At Biophilica, you won't be a small part of a large organisation – you'll play a key role in developing technologies that have the potential to replace fossil-derived materials across multiple industries. We are a collaborative, ambitious team where ideas are encouraged, innovation is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution.

If you enjoy practical laboratory work, solving challenging scientific problems, and seeing your research translated into real-world products, we'd love to hear from you.