7 Materials Science jobs in London

• Lead and conduct advanced research into the design, synthesis, processing, and characterisation of high-performance composite materials.
• Develop and implement novel experimental methodologies for evaluating mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties of composites.
• Utilise advanced characterisation techniques such as SEM, TEM, spectroscopy, rheology, and mechanical testing (tensile, fatigue, impact).
• Interpret complex datasets, develop theoretical models, and generate insights into structure-property relationships.
• Manage research projects from conception to completion, including planning, resource allocation, and budget control.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineers, chemists, and product developers, to translate research findings into practical applications.
• Mentor and guide junior researchers, technicians, and students.
• Author high-impact scientific publications and present research findings at international conferences.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property through patent applications.
• Maintain state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and trends in composite materials science and related fields.
• Foster collaborative relationships with academic institutions and industrial partners.

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline with a specialization in composite materials.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience focusing on advanced composites.
• Demonstrated expertise in composite material fabrication techniques (e.g., resin infusion, prepreg layup, pultrusion, additive manufacturing).
• In-depth knowledge of polymer chemistry and fibre reinforcement technologies.
• Proven experience with advanced material characterisation and mechanical testing methods.
• Strong publication record in leading peer-reviewed journals and a history of conference presentations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead research projects and mentor junior scientists.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Familiarity with computational modelling of composite behaviour is a plus.

Company Description

Alive Labs develops regenerative systems for the built environment , drawing from ecological principles to reimagine how materials, organisms, and design coexist.

Our technology platform rests on three pillars:

1.   Material Innovation — developing bio-receptive composites such as Terranite® , engineered to support life and capture carbon.

2.   Biomass Advancement — applying directed-evolution and micro-ecological research to cultivate resilient moss ecosystems.

3.   Biomimetic Design — using architectural and engineering strategies inspired by natural systems to solve complex urban challenges.

Through these, we’re transforming architecture into a living interface between humanity and nature, an infrastructure that heals rather than harms.

Role Overview

Alive Labs is seeking a Materials Scientist with a background in cement chemistry, mineral binders, or novel inorganic/organic composites to advance our proprietary carbon-negative material platform.

You’ll work at the frontier between chemistry, sustainability, and computation , refining and re-imagining the chemistry behind Terranite® our engineered substrate material for bioreceptivity and ultra-low embodied carbon.

This is a hands-on research and development role combining experimental design, analytical testing, and data-driven discovery. You’ll collaborate closely with universities, engineers, and product designers to translate breakthrough materials into real-world architectural systems.

Key Responsibilities

Design and execute experiments to optimise mix formulation, mixing processes, and curing processes.

Characterise mechanical and microstructural performance (compressive, flexural, SEM, XRD, TGA/FTIR) mix of in-house and Bath University testing.

Investigate mineral-organic and additive interactions to enhance carbon sequestration and performance.

Collaborate and coordinate with Universities to run test protocols and packages collecting performance data.

Develop datasets linking composition to performance outcomes; (advantageous) if candidate can apply AI/ML tools for analysis or discovery.

Interface with life-cycle performance and consultant with to embed embodied-carbon metrics in formulation development.

Support IP filings and contribute to scientific publications and conference outputs.

Requirements

Essential

PhD (or equivalent research experience) in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Civil Engineering with a focus on cementitious or binders.

Strong grasp of hydration chemistry, pozzolanic reactions, an interest in SCM systems, geopolymers and organic binders

Experience in mechanical testing.

Demonstrated capability to analyse and model complex datasets.

Curiosity-driven mindset — comfortable innovating beyond traditional cement systems.

Desirable

Experience with AI ML-driven or data-assisted materials discovery.

Knowledge of organic binders

Familiarity with LCA or EN 15804 methodology.

Experience interfacing with multi-disciplinary design or product teams.

Published research or patents in materials innovation or sustainable construction.

What We Offer

Opportunity to pioneer the next generation of carbon-negative construction materials.

Collaborative environment bridging science, design, and fabrication.

Access to state-of-the-art partner facilities (University of Bath, Sustainable Ventures).

Exposure to Innovate UK and EU-level R&D projects.

Competitive salary and flexible working structure (London / hybrid).

Company Description

Alive Labs develops regenerative systems for the built environment , drawing from ecological principles to reimagine how materials, organisms, and design coexist.

Our technology platform rests on three pillars:

1.   Material Innovation — developing bio-receptive composites such as Terranite® , engineered to support life and capture carbon.

2.   Biomass Advancement — applying directed-evolution and micro-ecological research to cultivate resilient moss ecosystems.

3.   Biomimetic Design — using architectural and engineering strategies inspired by natural systems to solve complex urban challenges.

Through these, we’re transforming architecture into a living interface between humanity and nature, an infrastructure that heals rather than harms.

Role Overview

Alive Labs is seeking a Materials Scientist with a background in cement chemistry, mineral binders, or novel inorganic/organic composites to advance our proprietary carbon-negative material platform.

You’ll work at the frontier between chemistry, sustainability, and computation , refining and re-imagining the chemistry behind Terranite® our engineered substrate material for bioreceptivity and ultra-low embodied carbon.

This is a hands-on research and development role combining experimental design, analytical testing, and data-driven discovery. You’ll collaborate closely with universities, engineers, and product designers to translate breakthrough materials into real-world architectural systems.

Key Responsibilities

Design and execute experiments to optimise mix formulation, mixing processes, and curing processes.

Characterise mechanical and microstructural performance (compressive, flexural, SEM, XRD, TGA/FTIR) mix of in-house and Bath University testing.

Investigate mineral-organic and additive interactions to enhance carbon sequestration and performance.

Collaborate and coordinate with Universities to run test protocols and packages collecting performance data.

Develop datasets linking composition to performance outcomes; (advantageous) if candidate can apply AI/ML tools for analysis or discovery.

Interface with life-cycle performance and consultant with to embed embodied-carbon metrics in formulation development.

Support IP filings and contribute to scientific publications and conference outputs.

Requirements

Essential

PhD (or equivalent research experience) in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Civil Engineering with a focus on cementitious or binders.

Strong grasp of hydration chemistry, pozzolanic reactions, an interest in SCM systems, geopolymers and organic binders

Experience in mechanical testing.

Demonstrated capability to analyse and model complex datasets.

Curiosity-driven mindset — comfortable innovating beyond traditional cement systems.

Desirable

Experience with AI ML-driven or data-assisted materials discovery.

Knowledge of organic binders

Familiarity with LCA or EN 15804 methodology.

Experience interfacing with multi-disciplinary design or product teams.

Published research or patents in materials innovation or sustainable construction.

What We Offer

Opportunity to pioneer the next generation of carbon-negative construction materials.

Collaborative environment bridging science, design, and fabrication.

Access to state-of-the-art partner facilities (University of Bath, Sustainable Ventures).

Exposure to Innovate UK and EU-level R&D projects.

Competitive salary and flexible working structure (London / hybrid).

• Leading and directing research programs in advanced materials science, encompassing areas such as nanomaterials, composites, polymers, or functional coatings.
• Defining strategic research objectives and developing multi-year project plans.
• Managing and mentoring a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians.
• Overseeing experimental design, execution, and data analysis for complex material science projects.
• Securing research funding through grant applications and industry partnerships.
• Publishing research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and presenting at international conferences.
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, including industry partners, academic institutions, and government agencies.
• Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and laboratory best practices.
• Driving the intellectual property strategy and patent development for new material innovations.
• Evaluating emerging technologies and identifying opportunities for future research directions.

• Leading and managing cutting-edge research projects in advanced materials science, from conceptualisation to publication/patenting.
• Designing and synthesising novel materials with tailored properties for diverse applications, such as aerospace, energy, and electronics.
• Developing and implementing advanced characterisation techniques to thoroughly analyse material structure, properties, and performance.
• Interpreting complex experimental data and translating findings into actionable insights and scientific publications.
• Collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams, including chemists, physicists, engineers, and computational scientists.
• Mentoring and guiding junior researchers and postdoctoral fellows, fostering a culture of scientific excellence.
• Securing research funding through grant applications and contributing to strategic research planning.
• Presenting research findings at international conferences and engaging with the wider scientific community.
• Ensuring compliance with all laboratory safety protocols and ethical research standards.
• Contributing to the development of intellectual property and patent strategies.
• Evaluating emerging materials technologies and identifying opportunities for competitive advantage.

• PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or related field.
• 10+ years of post-doctoral research experience.
• Demonstrated success in leading research teams and projects.
• Extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Expertise in material synthesis and advanced characterisation techniques.
• Strong grant writing and proposal development skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities.