FutureBio
Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist - Polymer
FutureBio, Berkeley, California, United States, 94709
Senior Research Associate / Associate Scientist - Polymer
This range is provided by FutureBio. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more. Base pay range $90,000.00/yr - $110,000.00/yr About FutureBio FutureBio is an early-stage biotechnology startup dedicated to developing and deploying innovative solutions to combat climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainability. We focus on the biomanufacturing of commodity chemicals from renewable biomass and waste feedstocks to create recyclable or biodegradable products—including plastics, flavors, and fragrances. By combining strain engineering, metabolic engineering, protein engineering, fermentation, and materials science, we are building scalable, impactful technologies to drive the transition to a circular, low-carbon economy. FutureBio is located at UC Berkeley's Bakar Labs for Energy & Materials (powered by QB3). Position Summary We are seeking a highly motivated
Senior Research Associate or Associate Scientist
to join and support the R&D efforts of the Materials team at FutureBio. This is an important role where the individual will contribute to the
design, synthesis, and characterization of novel materials , with a focus on
polymers, monomers, or biobased systems . The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced startup environment and brings hands-on lab expertise, data-driven rigor, and strong scientific curiosity. Key Responsibilities Design and execute experiments related to organic
polymer synthesis, purification, chemical recycling, or bio-derived monomer development Material, especially organic polymer characterization. Maintain detailed lab notebooks and uphold safety and compliance standards Analyze, interpret, and present data in team meetings and technical reviews Collaborate cross-functionally with protein engineers, fermentation scientists, and external partners Contribute new research ideas, patent filings, reports, and publications as needed Qualifications Required: BS with 3-4 years of experience/MS with 2-3 years of experience or PhD
in chemistry or polymer science, chemical engineering or materials science Strong
hands-on skills in organic/polymer synthesis , purification is required Polymer/materials characterization and detailed data recording Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to evolving priorities This is a hands-on position and is expected to work on-site We are currently not supporting H1B sponsorships. Preferred: Operate and maintain lab and analytical instrumentation (e.g., NMR, GPC, FTIR, TGA, DSC, rheometer, surface characterization) Experience with data analysis and scientific software (e.g., ChemDraw, MS Office, LIMS is a plus) Experience in
sustainable materials, circular polymers, or green chemistry Prior work experience, preferably in
startups
or fast-paced research environments Local candidates are preferred. Why Join Us: Mission-driven culture with a focus on
climate impact
and sustainable materials innovation. Access to cutting-edge tools, mentorship, and career development Collaborative and dynamic team environment. Competitive compensation and equity package. Opportunity to directly contribute to environmental sustainability through groundbreaking technology. Adaptability to the dynamic needs of a startup environment. Compensation and Benefits Salary range: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 annually Stock options Comprehensive insurance coverage, including health, dental, and vision Unlimited paid time off (PTO) How to Apply To apply, please send your
CV and cover letter
to
admin@futurebio.net
or apply directly through our
LinkedIn job posting . Who we are hiring for Senior Research Associate or Associate Scientist role focused on polymer science within a startup environment; on-site, hands-on lab work, data-driven analysis, and cross-functional collaboration.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
This range is provided by FutureBio. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more. Base pay range $90,000.00/yr - $110,000.00/yr About FutureBio FutureBio is an early-stage biotechnology startup dedicated to developing and deploying innovative solutions to combat climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainability. We focus on the biomanufacturing of commodity chemicals from renewable biomass and waste feedstocks to create recyclable or biodegradable products—including plastics, flavors, and fragrances. By combining strain engineering, metabolic engineering, protein engineering, fermentation, and materials science, we are building scalable, impactful technologies to drive the transition to a circular, low-carbon economy. FutureBio is located at UC Berkeley's Bakar Labs for Energy & Materials (powered by QB3). Position Summary We are seeking a highly motivated
Senior Research Associate or Associate Scientist
to join and support the R&D efforts of the Materials team at FutureBio. This is an important role where the individual will contribute to the
design, synthesis, and characterization of novel materials , with a focus on
polymers, monomers, or biobased systems . The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced startup environment and brings hands-on lab expertise, data-driven rigor, and strong scientific curiosity. Key Responsibilities Design and execute experiments related to organic
polymer synthesis, purification, chemical recycling, or bio-derived monomer development Material, especially organic polymer characterization. Maintain detailed lab notebooks and uphold safety and compliance standards Analyze, interpret, and present data in team meetings and technical reviews Collaborate cross-functionally with protein engineers, fermentation scientists, and external partners Contribute new research ideas, patent filings, reports, and publications as needed Qualifications Required: BS with 3-4 years of experience/MS with 2-3 years of experience or PhD
in chemistry or polymer science, chemical engineering or materials science Strong
hands-on skills in organic/polymer synthesis , purification is required Polymer/materials characterization and detailed data recording Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to evolving priorities This is a hands-on position and is expected to work on-site We are currently not supporting H1B sponsorships. Preferred: Operate and maintain lab and analytical instrumentation (e.g., NMR, GPC, FTIR, TGA, DSC, rheometer, surface characterization) Experience with data analysis and scientific software (e.g., ChemDraw, MS Office, LIMS is a plus) Experience in
sustainable materials, circular polymers, or green chemistry Prior work experience, preferably in
startups
or fast-paced research environments Local candidates are preferred. Why Join Us: Mission-driven culture with a focus on
climate impact
and sustainable materials innovation. Access to cutting-edge tools, mentorship, and career development Collaborative and dynamic team environment. Competitive compensation and equity package. Opportunity to directly contribute to environmental sustainability through groundbreaking technology. Adaptability to the dynamic needs of a startup environment. Compensation and Benefits Salary range: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 annually Stock options Comprehensive insurance coverage, including health, dental, and vision Unlimited paid time off (PTO) How to Apply To apply, please send your
CV and cover letter
to
admin@futurebio.net
or apply directly through our
LinkedIn job posting . Who we are hiring for Senior Research Associate or Associate Scientist role focused on polymer science within a startup environment; on-site, hands-on lab work, data-driven analysis, and cross-functional collaboration.
#J-18808-Ljbffr