Job Description
Position Summary
We are seeking a hands-on Research Scientist to lead the development of solvent-based and water-based copolyester adhesives and coatings, specifically for Bostik's Vitel copolyester product line. This role supports innovation and product maintenance in food and industrial flexible packaging applications, with a strong focus on customer engagement and cross-functional collaboration.
Job Dimensions
Drive new product development and product line maintenance for Vitel copolyester adhesives and coatings. Applications cover food and industrial markets using this technology.
Material science and application expertise in the flexible packaging market is necessary.
Collaborate with regulatory, analytical, supply chain, tech service, sales, and manufacturing teams to support product development and troubleshooting.
Work productively in the lab to support all R&D projects for the assigned market/technology with accuracy, precision, and responsiveness.
Prepare detailed technical documentation and present findings to internal teams. Utilize electronic lab note book.
Ensure adherence to safety policies, 5S lab practices, and quality protocols.
Activities
Execute bench-scale synthesis using condensation polymerization, including safe handling of isocyanates and solvents.
Design, plan and conduct experiments using design of experiments (DoE) methodology; analyze data and draw actionable conclusions. Work with legal team to review freedom to operate.
Translate lab results into scalable, commercialized products; support plant-scale production.
Support internal and external customers with technical guidance, including issue resolution and continuous improvement.
Complete necessary testing of new ideas and products, leading to the submission of invention disclosures or patents.
Operate in compliance with site safety EHS policies and quality management systems.
Follow applicable work instructions or standard operating procedures. Recognize deviations from routines.
Identify improvements in test methods, validate them, and update work instructions/ standard operating procedures as applicable.
Accountabilities
Product line ownership from R&D perspective and maintenance as well as new product development of copolyester products.
Manage technical projects by completion of lab analyses and pilot trials leading to commercialization of new products. Be a strong team player. Follow stage gate process and manage projects to completion with timeliness.
Lead problem resolution through a thorough understanding of the issue.
Effective and efficient use of Bostik resources and coordination of support from other Bostik functions with responsiveness and a commitment to timelines.
What you'll Bring
Basic Qualifications
PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Material Science, or related field.
2+ years of industry experience in adhesives or coatings development.
Preferred Skills
Expertise in polyester synthesis and formulation of water- and solvent-based systems.
Deep knowledge of polymer chemistry and structure-property relationships.
Strong communication and collaboration skills across technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Experience with statistical analysis, DoE, and stage gate processes.
Additional Details
~10-20% domestic travel.
Requires independent lab work, problem-solving, and close coordination with global R&D.
Strong emphasis on ethical, safe, and sustainable lab practices.
Arkema Inc. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Arkema Inc. complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of
