Lead Scientist (Cofounder Track)

This is a remote position.

The Role

We’re looking for aLead Scientistwho can spearhead our R&D efforts across material science, binder chemistry, and performance optimization of natural fiber composites. You’ll work closely with the founding team to drive innovation from lab to market — and help define the scientific DNA of the company.

This is not just a job. It’s an invitation to helpbuild a science-first materials companyfrom the ground up — with a path to co-founder equity for the right person.

What You’ll Do

Lead R&D onbiobased composites, with a focus on straw-based panel products

Develop, test, and optimizebinders/resins(formaldehyde-free, bio-based alternatives)

Run experiments, design testing protocols, and analyze mechanical, thermal, acoustic properties

Own partnerships with labs, research institutes, and testing facilities (BIS, NABL, etc.)

Translate research into scalable pilot-line production processes

Collaborate with operations and product teams to bring innovations to market

Build and lead the science team over time

You Might Be a Fit If You

Have3–7 yearsexperience inmaterial science / chemical engineering / polymer science, ideally with a PhD or master’s degree

Have worked onnatural fiber composites, bio-based binders/resins, or panel products

Are comfortable inlab + factory environments— you think in experiments, but build for the real world

Want to work in amission-driven startup, with autonomy, responsibility, and impact

Are a problem-solver, quick learner, and love getting your hands dirty (literally)

Have published research or patents — bonus

Why This Role is Special

Co-founder track

This is a core team role with significant ownership and upside

Impact

Directly contribute to reducing deforestation, carbon emissions, and crop burning

Freedom to innovate

Build your own lab, team, and research roadmap

Cross-disciplinary collaboration: Work with builders, designers, architects, and sustainability experts

Compensation

Competitive salary + performance incentives

Significantequity with co-founder vesting track

Support for conferences, journals, and lab collaborations

Work with a passionate team building for people and the planet

Originally posted on Himalayas