SUMMARY:
A well-established manufacturer with a diverse portfolio of unsaturated polyester resins, solvent-borne resins, dispersions, and additives is seeking an experienced R&D Chemist to conduct fundamental and applied research from first principles to develop innovative polymer technologies, resin chemistries, and formulations that support the company's long-term growth strategy. The role will drive the development of sustainable and high-performance resin systems, strengthen the company's intellectual property portfolio, reduce reliance on licensed technologies, and translate scientific research into commercially viable products and manufacturing processes.
POSITION INFO:
Minimum requirements for the role: Must have an M. Sc. or internationally recognised equivalent postgraduate qualification in Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Chemistry or a closely related discipline Minimum 7-10 years' industrial R&D experience within polymer science, resin technology or related chemical industries Demonstrated experience developing new polymer chemistries and formulations from concept to commercialisation High level of professionalism and reliability Strong technology awareness with an innovative mindset Experience in polymer synthesis, formulation development, experimental design, statistical analysis of experimental data, scale-up and technology transfer, as well as polymer characterisation Adaptable, with a commitment to continuous learning and development Strong collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills Proven track record of delivering innovative technologies with measurable commercial value Strong planning, prioritisation, and project management skills High level of attention to detail and commitment to scientific rigour Experience working with sustainability initiatives, circular economy technologies or renewable feedstocks would be advantageous Strong scientific innovation and creative problem-solving skills Excellent analytical and critical thinking abilities Experience working within an international technical environment or collaborating with external research institutions would be advantageous Excellent technical report writing and communication skills Strong sense of accountability and ownership Customer- and business-focused approach The successful candidate will be responsible for: Conducting fundamental and applied research from first principles to develop innovative polymer chemistries, resin technologies, and formulations. Designing, synthesising, and evaluating new polymer systems aligned with strategic business objectives. Developing sustainable polymer technologies incorporating renewable raw materials, recycled feedstocks, and environmentally responsible chemistries. Developing alternative technologies that strengthen the company's intellectual property and reduce dependence on licensed technologies. Designing and executing scientifically robust experimental programmes using sound statistical principles. Identifying and developing breakthrough technologies to support long-term business growth. Evaluating emerging technologies, scientific literature, and market developments. Contributing to patent generation, intellectual property development, and proprietary technologies. Supporting the development of long-term technology roadmaps. Leading R&D projects from concept through laboratory development, pilot-scale trials, manufacturing implementation, and commercialisation. Managing multiple concurrent research projects while achieving agreed milestones and timelines. Coordinating cross-functional project teams involving Technical, Operations, Commercial, Procurement, and Quality. Translating laboratory developments into robust manufacturing processes. Supporting scale-up activities and manufacturing implementation. Providing specialist technical support during customer qualification and product commercialisation. Preparing technical specifications, reports, and supporting documentation. Developing collaborative relationships with universities, research institutions, suppliers, and technology partners. Evaluating emerging raw materials, catalysts, and processing technologies. Representing the company at relevant scientific and industry forums. Mentoring chemists and technicians. Promoting a culture of innovation, scientific excellence, and continuous improvement. Supporting technical capability development and succession planning. Please note that subsequent to the screening and shortlisting process, all further communication will be entered into only with the shortlisted candidates. If you do not receive any feedback from us within 2 weeks of applying, please consider your application unsuccessful.
