Industrial Scientist – Biopolymers & Circular Economy
Location: Glenrothes, Fife
Employment Type: Full-Time
Sector: Industrial Science / Sustainability / Biotechnology
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Industrial Scientist to join a pioneering biotechnology company that is transforming marine waste into high-value, sustainable products. Backed by substantial investment, the company is scaling up production of natural biopolymers with applications across biomedical and environmental industries.
With the first commercial-scale facility currently under development in Fife, this role offers the chance to make a tangible impact in a growing business committed to driving innovation in the circular bioeconomy.
About the Role
The successful candidate will work closely with the R&D team to develop and optimise chitosan-based products and processes. The role involves hands-on laboratory work, client engagement, and supporting the development of robust quality systems in line with regulatory standards. You will be instrumental in helping bridge the gap between laboratory research and commercial-scale production.
Key Responsibilities
- Support research and development projects in line with client specifications
- Optimise chitosan manufacturing processes and evaluate product performance
- Contribute to the development of a quality management system aligned with GLP, GMP, and regulatory requirements
- Write and maintain documentation including SOPs, risk assessments, and safety data sheets
- Perform in-process batch testing, sample analysis, and maintain lab records
- Present technical findings internally and to external stakeholders
- Manage laboratory inventory and coordinate external testing with subcontractors
- Provide technical support and consultation to customers
- Support environmental monitoring and maintain lab cleanliness and compliance
Essential Qualifications and Skills
- Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field
- Practical experience with chitosan or biopolymer-based materials is highly advantageous
- Strong understanding of biopolymers, process optimisation, and water treatment chemistry
- Skilled in using laboratory instruments such as FTIR, TGA, viscometers, and UV-Vis spectrophotometers
- Hands-on experience in standard lab techniques (pipetting, titration, solution preparation)
- Strong communication skills and the ability to present technical information clearly
- Ability to design experiments, perform data analysis, and draw technical conclusions
Desirable Experience
- Knowledge of wastewater treatment processes
- Experience synthesising chitosan derivatives
- Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics
- Experience in scaling up from lab to industrial volumes
- Driving licence for occasional site visits
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
- Pension, life insurance, and critical illness cover
- Opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable science
- A collaborative, mission-led team environment
- Career development in a growing and innovative company
This is a rare chance to be part of a dynamic team delivering practical, sustainable solutions through science. If you are excited by the potential of biotechnology to drive environmental impact, we encourage you to apply.
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