Research Associate - Polymer Chemistry

Job Title: Research Associate - Polymer Chemistry

Primary responsibility: Conduct polymer synthesis and QA/QC of commercial and research resins

Job Description:

Cascade Biocatalysts is seeking a dynamic and motivated Research Associate to join our growing team. Reporting directly to our Senior Scientist, the Research Associate will play a pivotal role in the synthesis, development and commercialization of our polymer brush resin products. This role will be responsible for the synthesis of Cascade’s novel Body Armor for Enzyme™ polymer brush technology and for conducting our quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) processes. Your role will also support the scale up of our commercial products.

Importantly, we are seeking a candidate who embodies our core values: an obsession with delivering top caliber products to customers, an active curiosity, consistent communication, and an inherent assumption of goodwill in their interactions with others. An ideal candidate is also aligned with Cascade’s vision of empowering enzymes to disrupt the chemicals industry.

Responsibilities:

• Polymer Synthesis: Creating and optimizing Cascade’s novel Body Armor for Enzyme™ through controlled radical polymerization techniques.
• QA/QC: Conduct QA/QC analysis of manufactured products to ensure quality and consistency through various techniques such as thermal analysis and spectroscopy (TGA, FTIR, SEC, evolved gas analysis).
• Startup Environment: As an early hire at a startup, you must be able to adapt to rapidly evolving project needs and fast paced project timelines, deadlines and contribute to cross-functional tasks as required.
• 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.
• 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.
• Laboratory maintenance: Maintain cleanliness and organization of the laboratory space. Assist in routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment.

Qualifications:

• Extensive lab experience: Experience in a research laboratory environment. Air sensitive chemistry and/or controlled radical polymerization experience is a plus.
• 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, polymer chemistry, analytical chemistry, 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 synthesizing and characterizing our polymer brush 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