Researcher, PT&C
LyondellBasellAbout the role
LyondellBasell is a leader in the global chemical industry creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. With a nearly 70-year legacy that includes a Nobel Prize in Chemistry and our proprietary MoReTec recycling technology, LYB is enabling a more sustainable future for generations to come. LYB develops high-quality and innovative products for applications ranging from sustainable transportation and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. LYB places high priority on diversity, equity and inclusion and is Advancing Good with an emphasis on our planet, the communities where we operate and our future workforce. We're addressing the global challenges of ending plastic waste, taking climate action, and supporting a thriving society, while generating value for our customers, investors, and society.
Come Join an Inclusive Team
The PhD Polymer Characterization Researcher (Engineer or appropriately skilled Polymer Chemist) will be part of a team of researchers supporting an analytical and physical testing laboratory focused on polymer testing and characterization. The researcher will support polyethylene and polypropylene investigations through the thoughtful application and development of analytical techniques relevant to polymer characterization. These may include melt rheology, thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), solution characterization (CEF, GPC), microscopy, spectroscopy, and other methods as appropriate. Candidates should have a basic understanding of polyolefin structure, processing, and structure–property relationships sufficient to interpret data and frame technical questions. Candidates are not expected to be experts in all listed techniques; the role requires sound scientific judgment, curiosity, and the ability to develop new methods as business needs evolve.
A Day in the Life
· Work safely and follow all laboratory safety, environmental, and quality requirements
· Apply scientific judgment to support polymer testing, characterization, and problem‑solving activities related to polyethylene and polypropylene
· Develop, maintain, and improve analytical and experimental methods as needed to address business and research questions
· Interpret data, draw technically sound conclusions, and communicate results clearly to internal and external stakeholders, including customers when appropriate
· Collaborate effectively with research colleagues, laboratory associates, product development, applications, manufacturing, technical service, external partners, and customers
· Execute work reliably, meeting commitments and timelines while adapting to changing priorities
· Approximately 5–10% travel within North America, with occasional international travel as required
You Bring This Value
Education:
· PhD in Polymer Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, or a closely related field
· Educational or research background involving polymers, materials, and the use of analytical techniques preferred
Work Experience:
· 0–5 years of experience in analytical laboratory research and development or a closely related environment
· Experience working with polymeric materials, particularly polyolefins, preferred
Knowledge and Skills
· Fundamental understanding of polymer structure, processing, and structure–property relationships
· Ability to interpret experimental data and frame meaningful technical questions
· Demonstrated ability to learn new techniques and technical areas beyond prior training
· Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical results to diverse audiences
What We Offer
Competencies
Build PartnershipsDrive InnovationGrow CapabilitiesPromote InclusionMotivational FitTechnical SkillsDeliver ResultsLearn more about our benefits: Benefits/Health & Welfare | LyondellBasell
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