Polymer Chemist - Biobased Superabsorbent Polymer

Polymer Chemist – Biobased Superabsorbent Polymer

Join to apply for the Polymer Chemist – Biobased Superabsorbent Polymer role at Mooncup Ltd
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Location: London
Salary: TBC

Mooncup began with a clear goal: to give people a healthier, sustainable way to manage their periods – no petroleum plastic, no irritants, no compromises. We launched the world’s first medical grade silicone menstrual cup, pioneering a movement in period care that put health and the planet first.

We saw an industry where profit often came before people, where ingredients were hidden, and where plastics reigned. So, we made it our mission to challenge these norms and push for better.

Our vision is to be the world’s biggest absorbent hygiene brand. Not only have we just launched Mooncup period pads into Sainsbury’s, Boots, Holland & Barrett and Look Fantastic, but we’re also partnered with a growing range of workplaces, gyms and hotels (such as Canva, Danone, Gymshark, Claridges) to give their employees, guests and members free access to period products in their bathrooms.

We’re still leading the change in period care, using only science-backed ingredients that are actually good for your vagina. Because at Mooncup, we believe your period products should work with your body – not against it.

We are seeking a hands‑on, detail‑oriented Polymer Chemist to join the founding team of our venture‑backed deep‑tech startup, developing a novel, patent‑pending biobased superabsorbent polymer. As a core technical hire, you will play a pivotal role in setting up and commissioning our laboratory and driving polymer R&D from concept to pilot scale. The ideal candidate has proven expertise in polymer synthesis and modification, particularly with natural polymers, and thrives in a practical lab environment.

You will define experimental strategies, execute research, and help translate cutting‑edge technology into real‑world applications, making a tangible impact in a fast‑paced, early‑stage startup.

• Strong knowledge of analytical techniques such as FTIR, NMR, DSC, TGA, GPC, rheology, surface analysis, swelling index testing, and gel strength evaluation to characterise polymers’ physical‑chemical properties and performances.
• Develop and characterise biobased polymers with attention to sustainability, biodegradability, and environmental impact.
• Assist in experimental design, method development, and formulation optimisation.
• Design and optimise polymerisation reactions and functionalisation strategies to achieve target molecular weights, cross‑link densities, and performance properties.
• Experience developing polymer blends, composites, or hydrogels, and tuning mechanical or functional properties for application.
• Perform application‑relevant performance tests (absorbency under load, retention, gel strength, viscosity, biodegradation).
• Analyse data and present insights to the Technical Lead to guide research priorities and timelines.

• Maintain meticulous laboratory records, including notebooks, technical data logs, and experiment tracking.
• Support technical reporting for IP filings, investor updates, and grant applications.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety regulations (COSHH, risk assessments, waste disposal protocols).

• Work collaboratively with the Technical Lead to support and execute research activities.
• Participate in lab meetings, troubleshooting sessions, and cross‑functional discussions around R&D milestones, technology validation and scale‑up planning.

• MSc or PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• 2+ years of hands‑on experience in polymer synthesis and modification, ideally involving natural polymers.
• Practical experience with analytical techniques such as NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, swelling measurements, and gel strength evaluation.
• Strong organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail in data management and experimental documentation.
• Proactive, reliable, and able to work independently while contributing effectively to a small, collaborative team.
• Enthusiasm for working in an…