Polymer Scientist I-III

Company: Informs Career Centre
Location: Berkeley
Posted on: September 16, 2023

Job Description:

The Role Intropic Materials is looking for a creative and inquisitive polymer scientist/engineer to join our R&D team and support polymer formulation, and lead polymer parts fabrication and performance testing. The role requires an eagerness to develop, optimize, and conduct processing techniques and assays. Expertise in solution and melt processing of polymers is mandatory. You will be a critical member of a fun, collaborative, and driven team working to bring our new enzyme stabilization technologies to market. Responsibilities:

• Expand existing and establish new lab capabilities in polymer compounding.
  • Develop existing and new capabilities in melt processing of polymers, including bench extrusion, filament fabrication, injection molding, etc.
  • Develop bench processes for compounding proprietary additives into resins.
  • Support the ongoing development of solution casting of polymers
    • Work with team members to optimize the solution formulations and casting conditions to optimize material quality and performance
    • Engage on resin grade assessments and selections
    • Establish lab capabilities for thermomechanical testing
      • Select and install equipment
      • Establish protocols for controls and measurements
      • Conduct research in the fabrication of parts and conduct performance and durability testing
        • Use bench techniques to fabricate various format parts
        • Study thermomechanical performance as a function of environmental conditions
        • Participate in 3rd party and pilot scale development of polymer product formulations
          • Assist in finding, selecting and interacting with CROs/CMOs and/or development partners for polymer compounding/casting/extrusion
          • Be a positive contributor to a multidisciplinary scientific team through solid oral and written communication.
          • Be adaptable and hands on. We're an early stage start-up and we want and need you to be excited to wear all kinds of hats to help us realize our mission. Expected Qualifications:
            • PhD in Polymer Science, Polymer Physics, Polymer Engineering, or related field with 0-5 years industry experience, or equivalent relevant expertise.
            • Expertise in solution and melt processing of polymers with hands-on experience in additive formulations and the control and characterization of crystallinity (DSC, microscopy).
            • Expertise in polymer performance characterization (DMA, tensile testing, etc.) with hands on experience in durability testing (accelerated environmental impact on performance)
            • Ability to work independently and as a team member to deliver high-quality results obtained from well-designed, organized, and executed work.
            • Strong analytical and problem solving skills, and a keen attention to detail.
            • Organized, safety conscious, and committed to maintaining lab cleanliness.
            • Enthusiasm for doing it all, from establishing new capabilities in our growing labs to supporting scaling up our products. Bonus Points For:
              • Experience working with biopolymers such as PLA
              • Experience working with biocatalysts (enzymes)
              • Experience working with organometallic catalysts, particularly in small molecule organic synthesis
              • Experience with other forms of polymer characterization
                • NMR, GPC, HPLC/IPC, particle size analysis, FTIR
                • Familiarity with ELN/LIMS systems Requirements:
                  • Our lab sits on top of a gorgeous Berkeley hill nestled among the trees. The role is predominantly a lab position, with time split between experimental planning, execution, and data analysis.
                  • Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. What We Provide Intropic Materials is committed to doing good for the world, and central to that is doing right by our people. In addition to impactful work, opportunities for career growth, and a fun and interesting work environment, we offer:
                    • Competitive Salary
                    • Equity so you can share in the success
                    • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Account because health is wealth
                    • Generous Paid-Time Off and Holidays to keep you refreshed
                    • Home-Office Setup to help you work comfortably
                    • and more! To explore opportunities to join Intropic Materials, please email your resume and cover letter to

Keywords: Informs Career Centre, Berkeley , Polymer Scientist I-III, Other , Berkeley, California