📍 Location: Cambridge, UK
⏳ Type: Full-Time
🔬 Industry: Biotechnology, Construction

Join Our Mission at Biozeroc!

We are seeking a Material Scientist to join our construction technology start-up based in Cambridge, UK. This role offers the chance to contribute directly to the development of sustainable materials at the intersection of biology, materials science, and engineering—a field poised to significantly decarbonize the construction industry significantly.

This is an opportunity to join a purpose-driven company dedicated to making a real impact in the fight against climate change. If you are passionate about materials science, concrete technology, and sustainability, and eager to be part of a fast-moving and collaborative team, we would love to hear from you!

About Biozeroc

At Biozeroc, we are on a mission to help the construction industry build a carbon-neutral future. Through our proprietary technology, we tackle up to 8% of the world's carbon emissions, replacing carbon-intensive materials such as concrete.

After successfully raising VC funding and securing over £1M in grant support, we are now expanding our research and development team to achieve our ambitious goals.

The Role:

As a Material Scientist, you will play a pivotal role in our R&D efforts, focusing on the development and optimisation of bioconcrete materials and novel binder technologies. You will collaborate closely with biologists, engineers and the production team to enhance material properties, develop innovative mix designs, and improve production methods. Working in a small, energetic start-up, this role offers plenty of opportunities for learning and development for those with a passion for our mission and the energy and enthusiasm to get stuck-in and make a difference.

Key Responsibilities:

Characterise & Optimise Material Properties

• Conduct research to understand and enhance the properties of bioconcrete materials.

• Utilise advanced analytical techniques to study material characteristics and behaviours.

Develop Mix Designs

• Create concrete mix designs that meet specific performance standards and aesthetic requirements.

• Experiment with various compositions to achieve desired material characteristics.

Produce & Test Material Samples

• Prepare and test bioconcrete samples to evaluate performance under different conditions.

• Analyse test results to inform further development and optimisation.

Improve & Develop Production Methods

• Collaborate with the production team to enhance material manufacturing processes.

• Implement innovative techniques to improve efficiency and product quality.

Characterise Novel Binder Technologies

• Research and develop new binder technologies to reduce carbon footprint.

• Assess the performance and feasibility of alternative binding materials.

Collaborate & Problem-Solve

• Work with cross-functional teams to address material-related challenges.

• Propose and implement solutions to improve material performance.

Develop & Maintain SOPs

• Document standard operating procedures to ensure consistency in material development.

• Update protocols based on new findings and technological advancements.

Support Health & Safety Initiatives

• Contribute to risk assessments and ensure best practices are followed in the lab.

• Promote a culture of safety within the R&D team.

Successful Applicants Will Have the Following

Skills & Experience:

• A formal qualification in materials science, civil engineering (ideally with a focus on cement and concrete technology), or a related field. A PhD is preferred but not mandatory.

• Demonstrated experience in concrete materials and binder technologies, including mix design, material characterisation, and performance optimisation.

• Proficiency in using analytical tools and techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)

• Experience following and optimising manufacturing and production processes.

• Experience in manufacturing or industrial production would be a plus.

• Experience of early-stage production process development and process up-scaling would be a plus.

• Familiarity working in a production setting requiring high levels of care, quality checking and assurance.

• Experience developing and/or following Standard Operating Procedures

• Familiarity with COSHH and Health & Safety regulations.

Key Traits for Success:

• Innovation mindset: A creative thinker who can develop novel solutions to material challenges.

• Attention to detail: Meticulous in conducting experiments and documenting findings.

• 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.

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.

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.

Our Offer:

💰 Competitive salary £33,000-£45,000 (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.

Interview Process for Successful Applicants:

1. Stage 1: Short online screening call to assess role fit and alignment with our mission.

2. Stage 2: In-person interview, including:

   • Deep dive interview with our R&D team.

   • Practical assessment relevant to the role.

   • Final interview with our CEO or Head of Operations.

3. Stage 3: Offer and reference checks.

We aim to complete our selection process and make offers within March-April.

Department

Material Properties & Performance Team

Role

Material Scientist

Locations

Biozeroc Head Office. Cambridge.

Yearly salary

£33,000 - £45,000

Employment type

Full-time

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