Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Scientist II to develop next-generation sustainable and circular polymer materials. The role will focus on innovative polymer synthesis, catalytic transformations, polymer functionalisation, and closed-loop recycling, with the aim of creating high-performance materials with viable end-of-life pathways.

The successful candidate will work across synthetic chemistry, polymer science, catalysis, and materials sustainability, and will also collaborate with AI, modelling, and automation teams to accelerate materials discovery and its translation with industry partners.

Job Responsibilities

• Design and synthesise sustainable and circular polymer systems using advanced monomer, polymerisation, and catalytic chemistry.
• Develop chemical recycling, depolymerisation, upcycling, and closed-loop strategies for polymeric materials.
• Investigate catalytic and photochemical approaches for polymer synthesis, modification, and selective bond activation.
• Develop functional polymers from renewable or alternative feedstocks while maintaining competitive material performance.
• Establish relationships between molecular structure, processing, properties, and recyclability.
• Collaborate with AI, modelling, and automation teams on data-driven and accelerated materials discovery.
• Evaluate promising materials and processes with consideration of scalability, sustainability, and industrial translation.
• Contribute to publications, intellectual property, research proposals, and mentoring of junior researchers.

Key Requirements

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong experimental background in synthetic chemistry and/or polymer synthesis.
• Demonstrated strong expertise in sustainable polymers, chemical recycling, catalytic polymer chemistry, photochemistry, polymer functionalisation, bio-derived polymers, or recyclable functional materials.
• Strong understanding of reaction mechanisms and polymer structure–property relationships.
• Proven ability to conduct independent research with a strong track record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and engage academic and industrial collaborators.