- Location:
-
United Kingdom
- Salary:
- Competitive
- Type:
- Permanent
- Main Industry:
- Search Engineering Jobs
- Other Industries & Skills:
- Manufacturing, Utilities & Services
- Advertiser:
- Arkema
- Job ID:
- 132201933
- Posted On:
- 23 August 2025
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(R) 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
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-Drive new product development and product line maintenance for Vitel(R) 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 notebook.
-Ensure adherence to safety policies, 5S lab practices, and quality protocols.
Activities
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-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
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-PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Material Science, or related field.
-2+ years of industry experience in adhesives or coatings development.
Preferred Skills
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-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
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-~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.
-Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future. Sponsorship will not be provided.
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