FutureBio is a biotech startup dedicated to developing and deploying innovative solutions to combat climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and promote sustainability. We focus on biomanufacturing commodity chemicals in microbial platforms from renewable biomass or waste feedstock, featuring environment-friendly and easily recyclable or biodegradable products including plastics, flavors and fragrances, etc. By leveraging advanced technologies such as strain engineering, metabolic engineering, protein design and fermentation, we aim to create more scalable and impactful solutions for environmental challenges and drive the meaningful transition to a low-carbon and circular economy.

• 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.

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate or Associate Scientist - Polymer to join and support 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.

• Design and execute experiments related to organic polymer synthesis, chemical recycling, or bio-derived monomer development including materials lab set up

• 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

Required:

• BS with 3-4 years/MS with 2-3 years of lab experience in chemistry or polymer science, chemical engineering or materials science, with 1-2 years of industry experience

• Strong hands-on skills in organic/polymer synthesis, purification and polymer/materials characterization and record detailed data.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to evolving priorities

• On-site presence is required; this is a hands-on laboratory role.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

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 in startups or fast-paced research environments

• Stock options

• Comprehensive insurance (health, dental, vision).

• Unlimited paid time off (PTO)

$75,000 – $100,000 annually, depending on experience and role level.