Research Technologist

Research Technologist
Location: London, UK (White City)
Type: Full time, permanent
Team: Innovations

About Polymateria

Polymateria is a science-led sustainability company based at Imperial College London’s White City Innovation District, dedicated to tackling the global plastic pollution crisis.

We specialise in the biodegradation of polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, developing breakthrough technologies that allow these materials to safely biodegrade in natural environments without leaving behind microplastics or toxic residues.

About the Role

Polymateria is seeking to appoint a Research Technologist in the area of Masterbatch Performance for (bio)degradable Polymers. This is a laboratory-based role and the candidate will work closely with Innovation colleagues in London and internationally. The team includes scientists, engineers, biologists, and project managers working together to deliver leading-edge science in a corporate R&D environment operating to the highest standards.

This is a permanent and full-time position, based at Polymateria’s headquarters, home to our laboratories within the Translation and Innovation Hub of Imperial College London at White City, London, UK.

Start date

Targeted for mid-August 2026, with flexibility depending on candidate availability.

What you’ll be doing

• Actively involved in conducting laboratory-based studies and scientific investigations using analytical chemistry tools
• Employing established scientific methodologies autonomously, as well as establishing new ones with guidance from senior members of the team
• Collecting and analysing scientific data
• Providing progress updates to the Innovation team

About you

The ideal candidate will be motivated by using chemistry as a tool to develop products with improved sustainability features and performance. They will be a logical and analytical thinker, with a well-organised and structured approach to their work.

They will be excited about progressing sustainable chemistry solutions and skilled in communicating technical results to a technical audience. Additionally, the candidate will be dynamic and adaptable, with a willingness to grow and develop new skills beyond their core technical area to meet the needs of a growing and fast-paced sustainable plastics technology company.

What we are looking for:

Essential skills and experience

• Degree (BSc or MSc) in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or a related discipline
• Hands-on laboratory experience: sample preparation, running experiments
• Ability to maintain clear and detailed lab records
• Understanding of experimental design and standard lab protocols
• Experience in operating and applying FTIR analysis.
• Ability to follow SOPs and contribute to their development
• Strong attention to detail and reproducibility in experimental work
• Ability to plan and prioritise own tasks within a wider project team
• Proficiency in the use of key IT skills, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Strong communication and presentation skills are a must

Desirable skills or experience

• Experience with other polymer analysis tools such as GPC, TGA, DSC, and ICP is an advantage but not required.
• Basic programming knowledge (e.g. Python)
• Interest in coding and computational data analysis techniques
• Knowledge of polymer chemistry, particularly polyolefin chemistry
• Industry experience in the areas of plastics or packaging

Benefits

• Company pension scheme.
• 25 days holiday leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At Polymateria, we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to our success. We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the diverse communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.

If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will be happy to assist.

Right to Work in the UK

Please note that this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor visas for this role. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who meet this requirement.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted via the online application form linked below. (If the link does not open directly, please copy and paste it into your browser.) As part of the application, you will be asked to upload your CV and cover letter.

Application form: Research Technologist – Permanent Full-time Position Laboratory / Office Based in London, UK

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. The closing date for applications is 5pm BST, 30 May 2026. We may begin interviews before the closing date and reserve the right to close the role early if a suitable candidate is identified.

If you have any questions about the role or the application process, please contact careers@polymateria.com. Please note this inbox is for enquiries only.