Mycelium Tanning Chemist at MycoWorks

Igualada, Catalonia, Spain

MycoWorks Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Mid-level (3 to 4 years), Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Biotechnology, Materials ScienceIndustries

Requirements

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
  • A minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in leather tanning, with a strong background in tanning chemistry and process optimization
  • Proven expertise in selecting appropriate tanning agents, chemicals, and additives for desired leather properties
  • Knowledge of quality control procedures and testing methodologies specific to leather products
  • Familiarity with environmental and sustainability considerations in leather tanning processes
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze complex issues related to leather quality and production
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration and technical reporting
  • Proficient in using laboratory equipment and software relevant to leather testing and analysis
  • Demonstrated ability to lead projects, manage priorities, and meet deadlines effectively
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish. French is a plus

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development, improvement, and optimization of wet-end processes to achieve consistent and high-quality products
  • Utilize your comprehensive understanding of chemistry and tanning techniques to troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges
  • Define and monitor key process parameters to ensure the desired performance and quality attributes provided by the product manager
  • Collaborate with suppliers to source and evaluate raw materials for tanning, ensuring they meet quality and sustainability standards
  • Conduct research to innovate and introduce environmentally friendly and sustainable tanning methods
  • Perform rigorous testing and analysis of leather samples to ensure they meet industry and internal specifications
  • Collaborate with the design and product development teams to provide technical insights on Reishi characteristics and possibilities
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends, regulations, and emerging technologies related to wet-end chemistry
  • Execute technology transfer to internal and external partners as needed, guiding them on best practices, techniques, and safety protocols
  • Maintain accurate documentation of processes, research findings, and quality control measures
  • Participate in cross-functional meetings to contribute to product development strategies and initiatives

Skills

Tanning Processes
Wet-End Processes
Chemistry
Process Optimization
Troubleshooting
Product Development
Experiment Design
Mycelium Technology

MycoWorks

Produces sustainable mycelium-based leather alternative

About MycoWorks

MycoWorks produces a leather alternative called Reishi™, made from mycelium, which is a part of fungus. This material is designed to be sustainable and is appealing to fashion brands and designers seeking eco-friendly options. Reishi™ has already been used in luxury products, such as handbags and hats. The company has recently expanded its operations by opening a large facility in South Carolina, which is the first commercial-scale plant dedicated to producing Fine Mycelium™. This expansion reflects MycoWorks' commitment to meeting the increasing demand for sustainable materials in the fashion industry. Unlike traditional leather, Reishi™ offers a more environmentally friendly choice without compromising on quality. MycoWorks aims to capture a significant share of the growing leather goods market, which is projected to reach over $720 billion by 2030.

Emeryville, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2013Year Founded
$181.9MTotal Funding
SERIES_CCompany Stage
Industrial & Manufacturing, Consumer GoodsIndustries
201-500Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Equity
401(k) Retirement Plan
FSA Accounts
Paid Parental Leave
Paid Holidays
Unlimited Paid Time Off

Risks

Competition from companies like Bolt Threads and Ecovative may impact market share.
Reliance on luxury markets could limit growth during economic downturns.
Operational challenges in large-scale production may affect profitability if not managed well.

Differentiation

MycoWorks offers Reishi™, a unique mycelium-based leather alternative, unlike traditional materials.
The company operates the world's first commercial-scale Fine Mycelium™ plant in South Carolina.
Reishi™ is integrated into luxury items, showcasing its premium market positioning.

Upsides

Growing demand for sustainable fashion boosts Reishi™'s market potential and adoption.
Partnerships with luxury brands like Hermès and Ligne Roset enhance brand visibility and credibility.
The new South Carolina facility enables efficient scaling to meet increasing demand.

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