Title:  Research Scientist / Sr. Research Scientist - Coating Formulation

Research Scientist / Sr. Research Scientist

We are seeking a driven Research Scientist / Sr. Research Scientist for our Pulp & Paper Segment. As a member of the Atlanta R&D, you will be a critical part of a dynamic and diverse technical group focused on the new product development that aligns with Kemira’s growth strategy. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Partner with multiple functions (Application, Sales, Product line, PSRA, Manufacturing, IP) to develop and commercialize new product in paper coating.
• Plan, coordinate, and conduct laboratory tests to assess physico-chemical properties and performance of products in Paper Coating applications.
• Work with raw material suppliers to evaluate new or replacement materials for use in product formulations and ensure that all formulations comply with industry standards, FDA and BfR regulations, and other requirement from customers.
• Develop application screening techniques to deliver on more representative results applicable to customer specific needs.
• Assist in installation, operation, maintenance and troubleshooting of specialized equipment designed for paper coating applications. Identify and develop testing methodology to support process and product development.
• Design custom test procedures, and identify or build custom equipment to test material and product attributes to validate features and benefits of new technologies.
• Provide scale-up support from laboratory to commercial scale including manufacturing plant and customer site trials.
• Prepare and present written reports, publications and presentations that are concise, clearly understood and contain appropriate conclusions and recommendations.
• Contribute to the business and R&D strategy development in the research areas of focus, and proposes new R&D projects to R&D and business leadership teams.
• Actively manage and execute assigned work and propose new work plans.
• Some travel (10-20%) to customer and/or manufacturing sites will be required.

Educational & Professional Experience Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent area with + 2 years industrial experiences or
• M.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent area with + 5 years industrial experiences or
• B.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent area with + 10 years industrial experiences

 Desired Skills and Experience:

• Broad knowledge and experience in paper coating formulation development with an emphasis on barrier coatings or heat seal adhesive coatings.
• Strong background and hands-on experience in coating formulation and evaluation of barrier properties/heat seal properties.
• First-hand knowledge of the regulatory guidelines (FDA, BfR) in the development of barrier coating/heat seal adhesives.
• Experience working with paper coating, films, converting, and packaging.
• Capable of developing new concepts and has a proven record of accomplishments.
• Ability to work in a time-driven fashion, often with minimal supervision.
• Ability to take initiative to address issues and proactively find solutions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in technical communication.
• Must have a key focus on safety and the ability to work in a safe fashion unsupervised.
• Good interpersonal skills – able to work in a multifunctional team environment.
• Possesses good Customer interaction skills.