Research Scientist (Growing)

About us

Grouse Fibre is an early-stage climate tech start-up pushing the boundaries of the future of materials. We have ambitious aims to build a fibre production platform that can valorise materials into useful fibres for a range of applications. In order to realise this goal, we’re hiring mission-driven scientists and engineers who want to make a real tangible impact on the fields of material science and regenerative agriculture.

Where is the job?

This role will be based at Rothamsted Research, Harpenden AL5 2JQ. This is an on-site position with occasional travel to HQ (Cotswolds GL56) and partner sites. 

What will you do?

You will be a key hire, establishing our presence on the Rothamsted Campus and representing Grouse Fibre there. You will be the interface between the GF team and the capabilities at Rothamsted. Each day will be varied, with responsibilities around prototyping and lab experimentation alongside running high quality testing and validation studies. There will be a mix of chemical experimentation/modification of our key ingredient and then seeing the impact of those changes on plant growth and soil health.

The ideal candidate will combine chemistry and plant science. They will be confident in creating and running an experimental plan in the lab. They will also enable us to quickly test and iterate our ideas with well designed growing trials at Rothamsted and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Be the expert in growing and plant science
• Generate plans for experiments and trials to support our R&D roadmap
• Take the initiative to generate new ideas 
• Work with customers to develop research plans for commission trials and then deliver the project in a timely and competent manner
• Take responsibility for the safe and efficient operation of the laboratory and workshop
• Support on-going projects and collaborate with trial partners to evaluate materials on-site
• Record and analyse data sets and disseminate results to your colleagues and stakeholders
• Contribute to the overall success of the business which could include attending customer trials, writing grant applications and implementing ideas.

Qualifications and Experience

• BSc. in a relevant science with a good academic record. We are open to the exact field of study but should have a chemistry/biology/plant science element. 
• Knowledgeable on novel materials and innovations, ideally in plant science and horticulture
• Capable in creating experimental plans and undertaking risk assessments and completing hazard forms.
• Experience in drafting patent applications and creating IP (or an interest in doing so).
• Excellent IT literacy and and proficiency with spreadsheet software (Excel and Google Sheets).
• Willingness to adapt your role to support the evolving needs of the business and take on additional tasks and responsibilities as become necessary (e.g. project management, marketing, on-site work).
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and creativity in addressing design challenges, turning obstacles into opportunities for innovation and lean design solutions.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams - including colleagues, external consultants, and customer-stakeholders - ensuring ideas and solutions are shared and refined collaboratively.
• Highly self-motivated, adaptable and able to manage varied and rapidly evolving project priorities and workload.
• A passion for sustainability and a strong desire to contribute positively towards addressing the Climate Emergency.
• Demonstrable experience in polymer processing and formation (Desirable). Hands-on experience in synthesis or production will be an advantage.
• Delivery of externally funded projects i.e Innovate UK. ESPRC, Horizon2020 (Desirable)
• Experience of working within an early stage start-up (Desirable)
• Experience of professional horticulture and growing media (Desirable)

EDI

Grouse Fibre is committed to promoting equal opportunities and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively seek to attract and retain a diverse workforce as we believe that diversity drives innovation, enhances collaboration, and enables us to better understand and meet the needs of our employees, clients, and stakeholders. Therefore, we actively encourage applications from individuals with characteristics that are underrepresented in the construction industry.

Application

If you meet the above criteria, please send a CV to us through the relevant platform. If you are a potential fit for the business we will follow-up with some questions and arrange a call.

*If you don't have all the above, but think you would be a great candidate - please send us a CV and a cover letter explaining what else you bring*

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking