Job Description

Location:

Cambridge, UK

Type:

Full-Time

Industry:

Biotechnology, Construction

Join Our Mission at Biozeroc.

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We are seeking a Senior Material Scientist to join our biomaterials & biotechnology start-up based in Cambridge. In this role you will be responsible for driving the development of sustainable products at the intersection of materials science, biology, and engineering. Our technology is poised to significantly decarbonise the construction industry.

The Role:

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You will be instrumental in advancing our R&D and scale-up initiatives, focusing on the development and optimisation of binder materials, co-product synthesis, and material characterisation efforts. Collaborating closely with process engineers, biologists, and the production team, your role will focus on material synthesis, controlling crystallisation, implementing separation technologies, and improving production methods.


This is a high profile role within Biozeroc, and an opportunity for someone with the passion, energy and drive to make significant contributions towards our mission.

Key Responsibilities:

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Synthesise and Characterise BioCement & Co-Products

Drive R&D on co-product synthesis, and material characterisation Support on implementation of scale-up ready process control methods
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Optimise Material Properties and Production Methods

Collaborate with the process engineering and production team to enhance material manufacturing processes. Implement innovative techniques to improve efficiency and product quality.
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Characterise Novel Binder Technologies

Research and develop new binder technologies to reduce carbon footprint. Assess the performance and feasibility of alternative binding materials. Propose and implement solutions to improve binding properties.
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Produce & Test Material Samples

Prepare and test bioconcrete samples to evaluate performance under different conditions, aligned to industry standards and use cases. Analyse test results to inform further development and optimisation.
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Successful Applicants Will Have the Following

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Essential Skills & Experience:

A formal qualification in materials science, or a related field. A PhD is preferred but not mandatory. Confident working independently and proven ability to lead on materials R&D and product development. A strong material science background, ideally with expertise in developing binder technologies, rapid precipitation in solid-liquid media, and an understanding of crystallisation mechanisms. Proficiency in using analytical tools and techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), SEM-EDX, TGA, FTIR. Experience developing and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures. Familiarity working in a production setting requiring high levels of care, standards and quality assurance. Familiarity with COSHH and Health & Safety regulations.
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Non Essential Skills & Experience:

A material science background focused on cement and concrete technologies. Knowledge of concrete and cement industry classifications and testing methodologies
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Key Traits for Success:

Innovation mindset:

uses initiative and creative thinking to develop novel solutions to material challenges.

A self-starter with attention to detail:

Meticulous in conducting experiments and documenting findings, and driven by progress and results.

Problem-solving abilities:

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to investigate and address material-related challenges.

Adaptability:

Willingness to learn and adapt to new techniques and technologies.

Collaboration:

Experience working in multidisciplinary teams and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

Passion for sustainability:

A genuine interest in developing sustainable materials to combat climate change.
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Diversity & Inclusion

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive work environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute to our company's success. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds as we believe that innovation thrives on diversity.

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Working Hours & Location:

Standard working hours: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM, with core hours between 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Location: This is a lab-based role requiring full-time on-site work in Cambridge, UK.
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Our Offer:

Competitive salary 40,000-55,000 (dependent on experience).

Opportunity to make a real impact in a fast-growing, mission-driven start-up.

Company laptop and necessary tools.

Mentorship and support from experienced scientists and industry leaders.

? 33 days of annual leave (including bank holidays) + up to 3 additional days for company closure at Christmas.

Cycle-to-work scheme.

Company social events.

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Interview Process for Successful Applicants:

Stage 1:

Online technical screening interview

Stage 2:

In-person deep dive, panel interview, including: +

Presentation of practical assessment tasks

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Technical Q&A session

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Role fit

*

Stage 3:

Offer and reference checks.