If youve ever wanted to start your own polymer or chemicals startup in the Greater Toronto Area but werent sure where to begin, this could be your chance. Im building an early-stage venture, Zyhecta ( The website is still a work in progress, but the mission is clear: to deliver advanced and innovative polymer solutions to the plastics industry through: Custom polymer formulations & specialty product development Developing innovative products and technologies that support a more sustainable plastics sector Providing R&D support and advanced material testing through a network of university research labs Im looking for a PhD graduate with strong chemistry & polymer expertise to join as a co-founder. This is an equity-based role (not salaried initially), but there are significant opportunities for grants, accelerators, and early-stage funding. The goal is to build Zyhecta into a leading innovation partner for the plastics and polymer industry, developing solutions that have real industrial and environmental impact. Why Join A rare chance to build a materials startup from the ground up Apply your polymer expertise to high-impact industrial problems Collaborate on innovative product ideas and bring your own concepts forward Access to fundraising opportunities: grants, accelerators, investors Join a venture with strong technical leadership and clear direction Who is the ideal Candidate PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field. Preference with candidates with a strong polymer chemistry background (polymer synthesis, organic chemistry, etc.). Experience or expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and data science is a strong plus (computer vision, materials informatics, LLM & NLP, data-driven discovery, design & product development, big data, predictive materials research, computational chemistry, etc.) Strong background in product & technology development, polymeric materials, synthesis, R&D, specialty additives for plastics, and materials innovation. Prior experience in the polymer, plastics, and chemical industry is highly preferred, and previous startup experience is an additional asset Financially able to work in an early-stage startup prior to securing external funding (grants, accelerators, investors) Entrepreneurial mindset, proactive, hardworking, self-motivated, and able to drive projects independently Based in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) About the Current Founder I hold a PhD in Chemical/Polymer Engineering with over 10 years of industrial experience in the polymer and chemical sector. Im committed to building Zyhecta into a company that connects science with real industry needs, delivering innovative products and technologies that support a sustainable future. How to Apply If this resonates with you, Id love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a short note on why youd like to start a company to: Applications will be accepted until January 1st, 2026.
Job Title
Co-Founder & CTO | Polymer & Materials Startup