Polymer Chemistry

Polymer Chemistry (Self-Driving Labs) - Industrial Postdoctoral Researcher Join to apply for the Polymer Chemistry (Self-Driving Labs) - Industrial Postdoctoral Researcher role at AMPHICO Amphico is a London-based material science startup with global R&D operations across Europe, America, and Japan. Our mission is to accelerate the transition to a toxic-free chemical and manufacturing ecosystem by developing novel polymer systems and advanced performance chemistries beyond PFAS. To advance these technologies, we partner with leading global research organizations. This position is part of a new strategic collaboration with: The University of Toronto (Acceleration Consortium): World leaders in self-driving laboratories Amphico: Employer and industry partner, headquartered in London This project will establish one of the world's first industrial self-driving labs for polymer science, focusing on high-value industrial coating and surface science technology development. The Role & What We Are Looking For We are seeking an exceptional Polymer Chemist for an industrial postdoctoral position to lead the adaptation and build-out of one of the first self-driving laboratories for polymer chemistry. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in synthetic chemistry, polymer design, polymerization, formulation, and characterization , and is excited by the opportunity to merge chemistry with automation, robotics, and machine learning. You will work at the interface of synthetic chemistry, automation engineering, and digital R&D, helping establish data-rich experimental workflows for the rapid formulation and optimization of polymeric coatings. This will start with silicones, polyolefins, polysaccharides, and other performance polymer classes, with significant freedom to expand into new chemistries. This role is perfect for someone who is scientifically rigorous, practically resourceful, excited by emerging automation paradigms, and motivated by industry-relevant, real-world impact rather than purely academic research. Key Responsibilities 1. Polymer & Surface Chemistry Development Design, synthesize, and characterize novel monomers, polymers, and coating formulations using self-driving labs. Brainstorm, design, develop, and optimize polymerization workflows relevant to silicones, polyolefins, polysaccharides, and other functional polymers. Lead the development of polymer surface science workflows for coating adhesion, durability, and performance metrics. 2. Self-Driving Lab Integration Translate polymer chemistry workflows into automated experimental protocols. Work alongside automation and hardware experts in Toronto to shape the design of robotic handling, synthesis modules, and characterization stations. Build closed-loop systems connecting synthesis, testing, and ML-driven decision-making. 3. Digital Chemistry & Machine Learning Collaboration Collaborate with Amphico's ML scientists to design experimental search spaces, optimization frameworks, and modeling approaches for polymer behavior. Support the development of predictive tools for formulation, processability, and structure–property relationships by bringing chemistry domain expertise and experimental data. 4. Industry & Scale-Up Focus Ensure all R&D decisions consider industrial scalability, cost, manufacturability, and environmental impact. Support and translate lab discoveries into industry-ready chemistries and processes. Maintain strong documentation, reproducibility, and asset ownership of all workflows and data. Drive an ambitious R&D roadmap and own the execution schedule. Work independently while collaborating with cross-functional teams in Toronto and London. Contribute to regular reporting for both academic and industrial partners. Skills & Experience Required PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field - or 5+ years of equivalent experience. Deep expertise in one ore more: polymer synthesis, polymerization mechanisms, formulation chemistry . Strong expertise in lab automation, robotics, Python scripting and programming (e.g., OT-2 framework). Understanding or experience in self-driving labs (or materials acceleration platforms), automated synthesis, or ML-guided experimentation. Hands-on experience with polymer characterization and/or surface science characterization (e.g., GPC, DSC, rheology, FTIR, NMR, mechanical testing). Competence in designing and conducting complex multi-step chemical pipelines. Strong ability to structure experiments for high-throughput or iterative optimization. Demonstrated independence, scientific leadership, and ownership of research goals. Excellent communication skills, comfortable collaborating with engineers, computational scientists, automation specialists, and industry experts. Experience with silicone chemistry, polyolefin systems, and/or advanced surface coatings. Experience with design of experiments (DoE) or Bayesian optimization frameworks. Prior exposure to industrial R&D environments or scale-up considerations. A strong interest in sustainability and next-generation chemical innovation. Benefits & Key Info One-year fixed term, renewable based on performance. Opportunities for publication, patents, and high-visibility cross-institutional research. Work embedded within the Acceleration Consortium at the University of Toronto, with access to cutting-edge robotic and characterization facilities and world experts. Quarterly travel to London to work alongside Amphico’s material science team. Dynamic, international, mission-driven environment working on problems with global impact. Language: Fluency in English required. Location: Must be based in Toronto or be willing to relocate there. Work Mode: 4 days/week onsite (mandatory) and 1 day/week remote. Eligibility: Candidates should have the right to work in Canada. How to Apply Interested candidates should submit: A CV highlighting technical projects and relevant publications Optional short answers to the application form to understand motivation, fit, and experience Please submit applications via “Apply now” button or through this link: The University of Toronto is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialised persons/persons of colour, women, Indigenous / Aboriginal Peoples of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. The normal hours of work are 40 hours per week for a full-time postdoctoral fellow (pro-rated for those holding a partial appointment), recognising that the needs of the employee’s research and training and the needs of the supervisor’s research program may require flexibility in the performance of the employee’s duties and hours of work. Employment as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Toronto is covered by the terms of the CUPE 3902 Unit 5 Collective Agreement. This job is posted in accordance with the CUPE 3902 Unit 5 Collective Agreement. If you have a disability or any additional needs that require accommodation during the recruitment process or at any point during your employment, please let us know—we will be happy to support you. At Amphico, we deeply value diversity of experience, background, perspectives, and expertise, and we believe these differences are essential to driving meaningful scientific and industrial innovation. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member is respected, supported, and empowered to contribute their best work. At Amphico, we welcome applicants of all identities and backgrounds, regardless of sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, national origin, disability, age, marital or partnership status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr