Scientist

Modern Synthesis; London; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job description

Modern Synthesis is a biotech company bringing life to new materials. Founded by ex-Adidas designer Jen Keane and synthetic biologist Dr. Ben Reeve, we work with bacteria to produce an entirely new class of nanocellulose-based materials, which deliver performance without plastics and aesthetics without animal inputs. Designed for applications within fashion and beyond, our 100% biobased materials not only displace animal leathers or plastic-based materials, but also generate entirely new textile possibilities for designers. You can read more about our technology on our website.

We believe that big breakthroughs happen when disparate disciplines, perspectives, and ideas collide. As a team of biologists, chemists, designers, engineers, business experts, and microbes, we get to witness this magic on a daily basis. From our strong culture of debate (hot takes always welcome) to our bi-weekly deep dives, we intentionally embed collaboration and growth into everything we do.

We hire people, not roles, so we can be flexible on scope. We strongly encourage you to apply if you think you’re qualified for a portion of this role, and can demonstrate a proven ability to take on new skills and challenges.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Are you a creative and forward-thinking scientist looking to innovate in the field of high-performance sustainable textiles? We are seeking a Chemist or Materials/Textiles Scientist to join our R&D team and develop next-generation biomaterials based on bacterial cellulose. As a key member of our science team, you’ll engage in cutting-edge R&D to shape the future of sustainable biomaterials technologies. You’ll also have the opportunity to work closely with our Engineering team to develop a scalable manufacturing process.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Apply your expertise to design new biopolymer materials
2. Contribute to team projects by participating in ideation discussions, technical problem solving, and experimental design
3. Perform a variety of wet-lab tasks which may include:
1. Preparing biopolymer formulations (including combinations with natural plasticisers, humectants, reinforcing fillers, and other additives)
2. Functionalising cellulose via cross-linking or conjugation techniques
3. Synthesising or formulating polymers into textiles
4. Perform material testing & analysis, including:
1. Mechanical testing (e.g. stress-strain/Young’s Modulus)
2. Assessing material performance against industry-relevant metrics (e.g., colour fastness, abrasion resistance, flex)
5. Record, analyse, interpret, and present experimental data to the team and advisors

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

1. Masters Degree in Chemistry/Materials/Textiles Science (or related discipline) with 2-3 years of industry experience OR Undergraduate Degree with 4-5 years of industry experience
2. Experience in one of the following areas: biopolymer formulations, textiles, polymer synthesis and/or chemical modifications, or related
3. Hands-on experience in a wet-laboratory setting
4. Self-motivated with a passion for learning, development, and sustainability
5. Ability to effectively communicate technical information to diverse stakeholders, both written and verbal

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

The following skills and experience are not required for the role, but would be beneficial for a successful applicant:

1. Knowledge of cellulose chemistries
2. Experience in textile processing, finishing, and dye fixing
3. An understanding of coating, casting, and drying processes

BENEFITS

1. Company pension scheme
2. Private Health Insurance, including vision, dental and stipends
3. Enhanced Parental Leave Policy
4. Hybrid working arrangements
5. Flexible working hours
6. Cycle-to-work Scheme
7. Headspace subscription
8. Individual training budget for professional development, including access to LinkedIn Learning

OUR VALUES

Co-Culture – We Co-Culture Change
Co-Culture reflects our commitment to cross-pollination internally and externally, our ability to lean on one another, and our role as a catalyst in both business and culture.

Growth – We Put Growth on a Pedestal
Growth speaks to our inspiration and creative use of biology, our bias towards impact and scale, and our dedication to empowering industry to ‘grow up’ from a harmful past.

By Design – We Do It All By Design
By Design articulates the intentionality, empathy and creativity built into every aspect of our work. It also denotes the importance of accountability and our adherence to core design thinking principles.

OUR HIRING PROCESS

1. Round 0. Apply online
2. Round 1. 25 minute exploratory phone interview where we’ll dive into your work history and motivations for applying to Modern Synthesis
3. Round 2. 1 hour skills interview where we’ll explore the skills and knowledge you’ll bring to this role. Successful candidates will be asked to prepare a presentation for the final Round 3.
4. Round 3. 1 hour on-site panel interview and presentation with key members of the team

MODERN SYNTHESIS ED&I STATEMENT

Innovation rarely happens in a vacuum. The greatest ideas stem from a variety of perspectives, and an environment that supports equal representation and opportunities for all.

We are committed to driving global change. We only have one planet we all call home, and we need to work together to protect it. We believe in collaboration and a culture of debate. Disagreements are a chance to refocus our direction. We call this co-culture.

We welcome people of all races, genders, religions, ages, backgrounds, and abilities to our workplace and are committed to ensuring all our employees are safe, heard, represented and provided with every opportunity to thrive.

Equally we will act with integrity, purpose and respect in everything we do. We too are human. We will likely make mistakes and need to continue evolving our approach to ED&I as the world around us changes.