R&D Lead - Natural & Regenerated Fibres
Full-time | Onsite
CanvaLoop Fibre Private Limited, Citi Industrial Estate, Udhna Udhyog Nagar, Udhana, Surat, Gujarat, India
Job Location:
Introduction & Summary
As R&D Lead, you will work hands-on in our factory and lab — running experiments, evaluating new natural and regenerated fibre sources, and pushing the boundaries of what sustainable textiles can be.
About the Role
Lead end-to-end experimentation with natural fibres (hemp, banana, pineapple, sisal, nettle, etc.) and regenerated fibres (lyocell-type, agricultural cellulose)
Design, run, and document lab and pilot-scale trials to evaluate new feedstocks for fibre quality, processability, and scalability
Work directly on the processing line — this is a hands-on role; you are expected to be present in the lab and on the factory floor
Evaluate fibre properties (fineness, tensile strength, moisture regain, cottonization behaviour) and benchmark against target specifications
Identify new feedstock sources by researching agri-waste availability, seasonal supply, and regional sourcing feasibility
Collaborate with the manufacturing and partnerships team to translate R&D findings into scalable processes
Stay current with advances in sustainable materials science and regenerated fibre technologies globally
Requirements
Background in textile technology, materials science, chemistry, or a related discipline
3+ years of hands-on R&D experience — ideally in fibre processing, natural textiles, or sustainable materials
Comfort working in a factory/lab environment as a practitioner, not just an observer
A curious, first-principles thinker who is excited by ambiguity and energised by working on genuinely novel problems
Ability to move between rigorous documentation and scrappy experimentation as needed
Familiarity with natural bast or leaf fibres, or regenerated cellulosic processing is a significant advantage
What we Offer
Critical research leadership role in a dynamic, growth-focused manufacturing firm.
Competitive compensation package with performance-based incentives.
Professional development opportunities and clear career advancement paths.