1. OUR MISSION

Promoting a future that is nature-inspired. We are a sustainable material science company dedicated to developing innovative colour solutions that are environmentally friendly and socially responsible, designed to overcome the challenges associated with synthetic and non renewably-sourced colourants.

Redesigning the way colours are made. We are transforming the world of colour with fully plant-based, sustainable pigments. Sparxell’s patented technology arises from a decade of interdisciplinary research performed at the University of Cambridge. Our bio-based performance colour platform eliminates the need for synthetic chemicals, heavy metals, and unethically sourced minerals. Our technology won major innovation prizes, shedding light on Sparxell’s ambitions to foster sustainability with a targeted impact across industries where colour is essential, from cosmetics to fashion, packaging and paint, setting up a new standard for good.

2. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

As a key member of our R&D team, you will use your scientific and engineering expertise to optimise Sparxell’s cellulose-based formulation for applications in different industries.

Your main tasks will involve:

Proposing, conceptualising, and experimenting with cellulose formulation and chemistry to improve product quality, yield and scalability.
Planning and leading R&D projects that align with the company's business goals, timelines and budgets.
Characterising materials and interpreting data to iteratively improve formulation and products.
Growing, leading and nurturing a KPI-driven world-class team that fosters scientific excellence.
Reporting and documenting for internal and external needs.
Maintaining an overview of IP development and protection.
Representing the company in scientific conferences, meetings, and other events.

3. YOUR PROFILE & QUALIFICATIONS

We are looking for a talented scientist with strong research skills in one or more of the following fields, from preparation to characterisation:

Organic chemistry, extraction and reaction on natural molecules.
Chemical modification and functionalisation of polysaccharides or other natural polymers.
Lignocellulosic bio-refinery, pre-treatment and extraction, processes such as acid hydrolysis, acid recycling, and oxidation.
Formulation of natural molecules, cellulose, polysaccharides, paper or other natural polymers.
Natural molecule characterisation g. microscopy, spectroscopy, DLS, zeta potential, rheology, X-Ray, NMR, TEM and AFM.

You earned a Ph.D. or have an M.Sc./M.Eng./B.Sc degree in polymer chemistry, physical chemistry, soft matter physics, colloidal science, materials science, organic chemistry or chemical engineering, with at least 3 years of relevant academic and/or industrial experience.

Beyond your scientific expertise and to be successful in this role, you contribute to a collaborative and respectful workplace.

You are a team player who is adaptive, welcome feedback and embrace scientific and operational challenges proactively with enthusiasm.

You have a solution-oriented mindset as welcome opportunities for growth.

You are creative with a pioneering spirit yet focused and goal-oriented with excellent organisational skills to ensure the successful delivery of projects and long-term vision for the company's development efforts, striving for excellence in all aspects of what you do.

You exhibit a pioneering spirit, are eager to explore new ideas, take calculated risks, and drive innovation.

You thrive in a fast-paced working environment with a can-do attitude in which you will play a decisive role in the company’s future success.

You communicate, both in writing and verbally, with passion, accuracy and respect on each project you are part of. Your command of English is excellent, and you may be fluent in another language.

4. BENEFITS & CONDITIONS

Deadline for application: 25th of March 2025.

Contract: Full-time permanent contract with career advancement and opportunities.

Starting: When available.

Location: Cambridge, UK, with international mobility and flexible working arrangements.

Estimated remuneration: £ 37.5k – 50k with early employee equity package. Relocation package available.

Other benefits: Pension, private medical insurance & life insurance and on-site parking available;

Right to work in the UK: We have a legal responsibility to ensure that you have the right to work in the UK before you can start working with us. Therefore, if you still need to get the right to work in the UK, any offer of employment will be conditional upon you gaining this right.

References: Offers of appointment will be subject to the receipt of satisfactory references.

5. CONSIDERING JOINING OUR TEAM?

If you want to join our endeavours, please send your CV and a cover letter to careers@sparxell.com. Please name your documents as JobID_Forename Surname_CV or CL for faster internal processing. With these two mandatory documents, feel free to add any miscellaneous material supporting your application.

Colour speaks to all, and so does Sparxell. Our company is committed to building a diverse team and an inclusive environment where all employees belong. We encourage women, people of colour, of all ages, individuals with disabilities, gender-expansive individuals and LGBTQ+ candidates, and other under-represented minorities to apply to this position.

We will aim to review your application within a week and get back to you within a reasonable time with a final decision on your application.

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