Head of R&D - Materials Scientist | Alt.Leather

Main Sequence is seeking a Head of R&D - Materials Scientist for Alt. Leather in Melbourne, VIC. The role involves leading material innovation for a sustainable, plant-based leather alternative. Candidates should have a PhD in Materials Science and 8+ years of experience in biomaterials. Responsibilities include defining technical strategies, overseeing product development, and managing a multidisciplinary team. This position offers a chance to impact sustainability and collaborate with various stakeholders.
About Alt. Leather

At Alt. Leather, we’re building the next generation of materials—plant-based, petroleum-free, and purpose-built for a sustainable future. Our 100% biobased leather alternative is engineered for circularity, designed for scale, and developed to meet the highest industry standards in durability and aesthetics.

We’re backed by federal government funding and private investment, recognised by Cicada x Tech23 as one of Australia’s Top 23 Deep Tech companies (2024), and already working with iconic Australian brands. From footwear to automotive, we’re leading a material revolution—and we’re just getting started.

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a Head of R&D – Materials Scientist to lead Alt. Leather’s core material innovation. This is a rare opportunity to take a breakthrough product from concept to global scale. You’ll be responsible for driving the scientific vision, leading a multidisciplinary team, overseeing product development, and guiding commercial scale-up.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives at the intersection of science, sustainability, and strategy—and wants to turn deep tech into real-world impact.

What You Bring
• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• 8+ years of industry experience, ideally in biomaterials, polymers, or sustainable materials
• A proven track record of bringing materials from lab to market
• Deep expertise in material formulation, characterisation, and performance testing
• Strong knowledge of commercial-scale manufacturing and process optimisation
• Demonstrated leadership—capable of building and inspiring a high-performing team
• Strategic mindset with the ability to align technical innovation with business growth
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to deliver clear, data-driven reporting to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Willingness to get hands dirty carrying out experiments in the lab
• Bonus: You care deeply about the planet and believe materials can change the world

Why Join Alt. Leather?
• Join a category-defining, mission-led startup on the cusp of global impact
• Lead the science behind a product already attracting brand partnerships and media attention
• Collaborate with a forward-thinking team across design, sustainability, engineering, and marketing
• Access strong R&D infrastructure and partner networks
• Competitive salary, future equity opportunities, and the chance to build a legacy in materials innovation

Key Responsibilities
Scientific Leadership & Vision
• Define and execute Alt. Leather’s technical strategy across materials science and product development
• Align R&D milestones with broader commercial and sustainability goals
• Report critical findings, risks, and roadmap progress to leadership and stakeholders in a clear, data-informed manner
R&D Oversight & Innovation
• Lead internal scientists and engineers, while managing external R&D collaborations
• Drive innovation in polymer development, biomaterials, and sustainable processing
• Foster a creative, results-driven team culture
Technology Development & Scale-Up
• Oversee scale-up of lab formulations to pilot and industrial-scale manufacturing
• Direct testing to ensure physical, chemical, and aesthetic properties meet product specifications
• Lead industrial trials across regions, including current production development in India
Compliance, IP & Commercial Readiness
• Oversee certifications (e.g., REACH, ISO, USDA BioPreferred)
• Manage intellectual property strategy and coordinate patent filings
• Translate complex technical insights into value for brand partners, designers, and manufacturers