Chief Scientist
Start date:
3rd March
Application Deadline:
23rd February (Interviews from 25th February)
Time:
Full-time, 6 Month contract (with potential extension)
About Cyanoskin:
CyanoSkin is revolutionising carbon capture through an algae-based coating designed to transform buildings into carbon dioxide-absorbing structures, reducing emissions, greening cities and addressing urban pollution.
With the potential to absorb up to 18% of global emissions annually, Cyanoskin emerged to combat carbon emissions in the construction industry. Responsible for 17% of total UK emissions, the sector faces challenges such as high costs, limited incentives, and application complexities. Cyanoskin offers a transformative solution by converting buildings into carbon dioxide-absorbing structures through innovative living paint technology. With custom built sensors, , Cyanoskin enables building owners to monitor CO2 absorption directly on their walls, facilitating lower CO2 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and supporting the transition to net-zero emissions. Our mission is to accelerate global emission reduction efforts by providing a simple yet effective solution for carbon tracking and mitigation, aligning with targets outlined by the Construction Leadership Council.
About the Role:
Project based role: Join us for a dynamic journey at an Imperial founded Start-up.
Your role will be leading the research and development team working closely with the Founders to expand Cyanoskin’s innovative living paint technology.. It will involve advancing and optimising the product by rigorously testing current production processes, and developing them further. . Furthermore, the position will include collaboration with fellow biologists, material science researchers and engineers on our team.. This is a hands-on role involved in a wide variety of R&D activities, such as establishing targets for progress, setting up photophysiology studies, developing robust cyanobacterial cultivation processes and evaluating samples' carbon capture potential. Join us in advancing sustainable technologies and contributing to groundbreaking research.
Key Responsibilities:
Establish and implement timelines in conjunction with the founders
Lead the ongoing research to find the optimal cyanobacterial and algal species for carbon capture
Direct the material requirements for creating an optimal environment for selected species
Develop robust cyanobacterial and algal growth protocols
Establish and implement key performance indicators (KPIs) and assessment protocols to evaluate algae and cyanobacteria health, productivity, and carbon capture efficiency (e.g., photosynthetic efficiency, biomass accumulation rate and CO2 fixation rate)
Collaborate with the lead material scientist and other team members to advance coating development
Effectively communicate findings through non-technical descriptions to various audiences
Maintain detailed records of experimental protocols, results, observations, and analysis
Conduct secondary research and literature reviews to advance progress further, exploring key technical opportunities for optimisation
Prepare technical reports, summaries, and documentation
Experience Requirements:
Practical algal research/industrial experience
Or
Current or completed biological PHD’s (preferably within phycology or similar field)
(Both preferred)
Required Skills:
- Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
- Proficiency in laboratory techniques and equipment operation
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with preferable leadership skills.
- Ability to adapt to a dynamic research environment and learn new technologies quickly.
- Data analysis skills
- Microbiology cultivation experience
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working with biofilms or living coatings
- Knowledge of regulatory considerations for biological safety
- Practical algal experience
- Knowledge and experience of photophysiology
Pay, Benefits, and Culture:
Opportunity to work on a pioneering project with a focus on environmental sustainability
Flexible work arrangements and a collaborative, dynamic work environment
Free snacks
Who We Are:
Founded 18 months ago at Imperial College London, Cyanoskin was established by Emma Money and Antoinette Nothomb with the goal of making carbon capture accessible without compromising product quality. We value openness, resilience, and curiosity in our team members. As a startup, flexibility and adaptability are key. We highly value diversity and encourage all individuals to apply and join our dynamic team.
Please send us your CVand why you would like to join us (between 100-300 words) to emma.money@cyanoskin.com by the 23rd February (Email subject “{your name} Chief scientist job application”)