R&D Scientist – Pittsburgh, PA
Role Overview
This role is responsible for the research, development, and commercialization of adhesive, sealant, and coating formulations. The position involves close collaboration across departments, particularly with Operations, to ensure successful product scale-up and launch. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, technical expertise, and experience managing projects from concept through commercialization.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead R&D efforts to formulate and commercialize new adhesive, sealant, and coating products in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
- Develop and manage project plans, timelines, and technical documentation; provide regular updates and presentations internally and externally.
- Deliver technical support to Marketing, Sales, Engineering, Manufacturing, and other development teams as needed.
- Serve as a subject matter expert in raw materials, processes, testing methodologies, and industry trends relevant to adhesives, sealants, and coatings.
- Conduct literature and patent reviews; present findings to internal stakeholders.
- Navigate product development within the stage-gate process and maintain design control documentation.
- Present technical data and project outcomes to RCD and other internal departments.
- Communicate effectively with stakeholders across U.S. and European operations.
Qualifications:
- Minimum 3 years of professional R&D experience in a growing organization
- Strong knowledge of chemistries such as silicone, epoxy, urethane, and UV-curing systems; familiarity with structure-property relationships.
- Hands-on experience with analytical tools such as FT-IR, DSC, TGA, GC-MS, and GPC, as well as various physical property testing methods.
- Proficiency in statistical tools and experimental design (DOE) for formulation screening and optimization.
- Highly organized with excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Adaptable and self-driven in a fast-paced, customer- and operations-responsive environment.
Education
- MS in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or Polymer Science with 6+ years of relevant experience or PhD in the same fields with 3+ years of experience.