The Position:

A&B Smart Materials is an Oxford University–based materials science venture founded by Oxbridge graduates. We are pioneering the next generation ofbio-based, biodegradable superabsorbent polymers (SAPs)to replacesynthetic SAPs.

SAPs are “magic-like” materials that absorb hundreds of times their weight in water. They are used primarily inhygiene (diapers, pads, cosmetics)andagriculture (soil enhancers), representing a$17.6B global market. With new EU regulations banning non-biodegradable SAPs in soils from 2028, there is an urgent demand for sustainable alternatives.

We are backed by some of themost prestigious investors in the world, and are part of theCreative Destruction Lab— the leading accelerator for deep tech ventures. Our work has also been recognised globally, including being named a“DeepTech Pioneer” at Hello Tomorrow (2025)andWinner of the Cleantech StartUp Award (South East, 2024). Backed by world-class advisors and based at Oxford’s Begbroke Science Park with access to cutting-edge labs, our mission is to make sustainable SAPs the global standard.

Lead Research Scientist – Responsibilities:

• Lead SAP innovation: design and oversee R&D pathways for sustainable superabsorbent polymers.
• Bring deep scientific and practical insightsinto SAP design, performance, and scalability.
• Work closely with theCTO to shape technology directionand research strategy.
• Plan, execute, and interpret lab experiments with scientific and commercial impact in mind.
• Partner with the founding team to develop IP, refine technology pathways, and align R&D with commercial goals.
• Mentor junior scientists and instil best practices in experimental design and polymer chemistry.
• Represent A&B Smart Materials in publications, patents, and conferences.

Qualifications:

• PhD inPolymers, Biopolymers, or a closely related field.
• 10+ years’ experience in polymers/biopolymers, with a strong preference for hands-on work in sustainable SAP development.
• Industrial or postdoctoral track record in bringing polymer innovations from lab to scale.
• Strong wet lab expertise, with ability to design and interpret complex experiments.
• Proven leadership experience, ideally managing R&D teams or cross-functional research programmes.
• A history of innovation — patents, publications, or commercialised technologies in SAPs.

Desired Experience (Nice to Have):

• Previous experience working at company/startup developing sustainable Super Absorbent Polymers.
• Previous experience working at amajor chemical manufacturer.
• Background at alarge hygiene companywith exposure to SAP applications.
• Experience bridging betweencorporate R&D and fast-moving startups, bringing structure, rigour, and adaptability.
• Strong network within the SAP, polymer chemistry, or hygiene/agriscience communities.
• Competitive compensation packageof up to £100,000 with generous equity package, so you share directly in the company’s success.
• Significant long-term upsideas the company scales in a rapidly growing global market.
• Over28 days paid holidayannually.
• Flexible working hours with hybrid (on-site + remote) options.
• The chance toshape the global future of sustainable SAPsin a company building momentum with leading investors, accelerators, and awards.
• A creative, fast-moving environment where your experience will have a direct impact on products, IP, and company growth.

At A&B Smart Materials, we are looking for more than talent — we are looking fordeep expertise. If you have spent years pushing the boundaries of sustainable SAPs and want your knowledge to directly influence a breakthrough technology, we want to hear from you.

Recruitment email:

recruitment@absmartmaterials.com