Research Associate - Polymer Chemistry

Job Title: Research Associate - Polymer Chemistry

Job Description:

Cascade Biocatalysts is seeking a dynamic and motivated Research Associate to join our growing team. Reporting directly to our Polymer Chemist, the Research Associate will play a pivotal role in the commercialization of our resin products. You will be instrumental in conducting our quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) processes and in supporting the synthesis and scale up of our commercial products. Your expertise in analytical chemistry will be instrumental in ensuring the quality and success of our products.

Importantly, we are seeking a candidate who embodies our core values: demonstrating an active curiosity, consistent communication, and an inherent assumption of goodwill in their interactions with others.

Responsibilities:

• QA/QC: Conduct QA/QC analysis of manufactured products to ensure quality and consistency through various techniques such as thermal analysis (TGA) and spectroscopy (FTIR, NMR)
• Data collection and analysis: Accurately record experimental procedures, observations, and results. Organize and analyze data using appropriate statistical methods and software.
• Documentation: Contribute to the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for polymer synthesis and scale up. Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations to effectively communicate research findings and progress.
• Organic Synthesis: Familiar with wet laboratory techniques. Air sensitive chemistry and/or controlled radical polymerization experience is a plus.
• Scale up: Collaborate on the scale up of existing products for commercial production.
• Collaborative teamwork: Collaborate within a cross-functional team, including biologists, chemical engineers, and chemists, to design experiments, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to project planning and execution.
• Laboratory maintenance: Maintain cleanliness and organization of the laboratory space. Assist in routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment.
• As an early hire at a startup, you must be able to adapt to evolving project needs and contribute to cross-functional tasks as required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field and 1-2 years of relevant work or research experience in material characterization, analytical chemistry, QA/QC, or related disciplines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team.
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the challenges of a startup environment.
• Eagerness to learn and willingness to take on diverse responsibilities.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.

Cascade Biocatalysts is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace and strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

About Cascade Biocatalysts:

At Cascade Biocatalyst, we are commercializing our Body Armor for Enzymes, a composite material which makes enzymes rugged and reliable for cost effective biomanufacturing and, ultimately, a sustainable, more capable 21st century chemical economy. You will take a pivotal role in conducting the QA/QC processes on our polymer brushes and in scaling up our commercial products. Your expertise will contribute to ensuring the quality, reliability, and performance of our products as we commercialize innovative polymers. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact within a dynamic and growing organization.

Join us in our mission to revolutionize sustainable chemical manufacturing through the power of enzymes and polymers. Your contributions can help create a greener and more sustainable future for all.

Salary Range: $50,000 - $90,000