Research Scientist Job

We are seeking a Research Scientist to join the Sartomer business, based in Exton, PA. This position will report to the Global R&D Director. The Research Scientist is responsible for identifying, developing and commercializing new materials technologies within key growth markets for all business areas in Sartomer Americas and pursuing new development directions based on unmet customer and market needs. 

The successful candidate will play a leading role in the success of Sartomer's R&D team as a subject matter expert and innovation leader. The position requires technical, leadership and influencing skills in addition to a commitment to innovation, a strong attention to detail and quality work, willingness to mentor and coach less experienced team members, and a deep understanding of photocure/EB technologies and applications. To accomplish team goals close collaboration across functions and regions, ability to work as part of a team and excellent communication skills are necessary. 

Position is based in a chemical laboratory facility with all inherent risks. There will be occasional visits to pilot plant and manufacturing sites. Will work with Chemists/Engineers, Managers and Site Champions to accomplish goals. 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: 

New Product Development: 

• Independently identify new materials chemistries to advance the field of photocure and EB curing and propose new projects to management. 
• Develop project plans with minimal direction to efficiently reach goals. 
• Drive customer/market development projects to full commercialization. 
• Determine IP landscape in areas of activity to identify areas with freedom to operate and proactively propose and execute IP filings. 
• Identify, approach, and engage outside resources: vendors, universities, industry groups, consultants, etc. for problem solving and collaborative development. 
• Collaborate with global Arkema R&D team to develop new technologies and formulations and to adapt current products to new applications. 
• Organize and lead cross-functional project teams to achieve goals. 
• Proactively explore, identify, and develop new market/application opportunities
• Understand competitive technology and develop responses when needed. 
• Work closely with commercial and BD groups to understand market/customer needs and prioritize projects. 
• Collaborate with pilot plant and manufacturing teams for efficient scale up of new products. 
• Support cost reduction and process improvement projects. 

Customer Support: 

• Takes independent action to identify root cause of more complex customer/product problems. Develops analytical strategies and executes action plans to resolve problems. 
• As a subject matter expert, applies fundamental knowledge to relate how process and material characteristics influence performance properties of finished products. 
• Identify and lead implementation of the best Sartomer solution for an application by thoroughly understanding the customer need, testing, and analyzing results. 
• Build a deep understanding of customer needs and competition in market focused areas and provide "Voice of Customer" (VOC), new product ideas and competitive analysis. 
• Build strategic alliances with target customers to expedite product development and commercialization. Communicate results to customers through written reports and presentations. 

End Use Promotion: 

• Publishes articles and promotes Sartomer at industry events by writing articles and attending conferences globally. 
• In collaboration with the business and marketing teams and as appropriate, propose and implement branding strategies. 
• Presents at conferences as a subject matter expert. 
• Establish reputation as an industry expert in the field. 

Required Education/Qualifications/Work Experience: 

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or related discipline from an accredited university. Minimum of four (4) years of industry experience. 

Demonstrated Competencies: 

• Ability to influence stakeholders to take on new projects and technology directions. 
• Demonstrated ability to work with customers and internal functions globally. 
• Ability to mentor and develop less experienced team members in technical, career, and safety skills. 
• Demonstrated data analysis expertise and attention to detail. 
• Strong customer focus approach (i.e., Customer insight, Customer inspired innovation). 
• Cross functional effectiveness
• Demonstrated ability to self-prioritize and work on multiple tasks. 
• Track record of delivering results.
• Excellent presentation, verbal, and written communication skill
• Self-motivated with strong work ethic, positive attitude, and committed to delivering results. 
• Ability to influence others to achieve goals. 
• Ability to prepare Papers and Articles suitable for publication. 
• Actively and visibly supports the site HES policy and complies with all regulatory and internal requirements. 
• Participates in HES activities provided by site management and Arkema Inc. (e.g., Behavioral Base Safety, SafeStart, 5S, etc.). 
• Supports and promotes the reporting of all healthy, safety, environmental, near-miss, accident or injury incidents.