Senior Polymer Scientist - Strategic Innovation and Growth

We are currently hiring a Senior Polymer Scientist in the MonoSol Strategic Innovation group (SIG).  SIG is responsible for building the technology of the future at MonoSol – leveraging fundamental research, front-end innovation, and white-space exploration. Therefore, this position will require a creative, independent, and adaptable researcher who can learn new subjects quickly.

This position will work closely with Marketing to build and validate new solutions for unmet needs in certain focus areas. The position requires high energy, enthusiasm, entrepreneurial thinking, strong analytical capability and an ability to showcase critical skills like agile innovation methodology, continuous learning and a curiosity driven mindset.

The role consists of roughly equal parts ideation/project leadership/management and lab work, both as an individual achiever and as a part of the Growth team. Successful applicants will be able to competently lead routine laboratory activities and develop new specialized techniques as necessary to deliver project objectives.

This position is an excellent opportunity for an experienced scientist to lead projects for future innovations and white space exploration for the growth of this fast-paced company. This position includes substantial on-the-job training in a variety of laboratory techniques, processing techniques, lean innovation methodologies and data analysis techniques related to practical polymer science and engineering problems. A self-motivated individual who learns these skills quickly will be eligible for fast-track promotion along MonoSol R&D technical track, which includes the expansion of responsibilities to management of direct reports.

This position reports to the Head of Innovation, is a functional member of the R&D platform team and will actively lead initiatives in MonoSol’s growth operating system. The position carries with it a high degree of visibility requiring the ability to communicate through all levels within the organization, including the CEO of the Company.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead, develop, and establish new technical solutions for unmet needs in focus areas utilizing MonoSol’s Front-End innovation process.
• Create concept models and prototypes utilizing small tools and equipment (e.g., 3D printing).
• Utilize common and advanced laboratory test equipment to perform hands-on mechanical and performance testing on solutions being created.
• Utilize advanced data interpretation methods (e.g., Python scripts) to evaluate new materials/processes to meet internal and external customer requirements.
• Independently generate testable hypotheses and experimental plans which contribute towards achieving development project goals.
• Confer with fellow team members on development projects, test results, and the development of nonstandard tests.
• Effectively present results to the growth teams and governing members to validate the solution being developed.

• Leverage collaborators, internal and external, to develop novel technologies and / or new products.
• In a non-supervisory capacity, provide coaching and guidance regarding project tasks to other technicians and associates in R&D division.

• Requires a flexible work style and travel as necessary to perform assignments. Maximum of 20% travel required – domestic and abroad.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Material Science, Polymer Science, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering is required.
• 5-10 years of hands-on laboratory and knowledge of various polymer chemistries. Project leadership/management is necessary.
• Strong understanding of polymer fundamentals with solid chemistry/engineering fundamentals.
• Preferred experience in leading innovation projects in various applications/industries.
• Experience with data science tools such as Python, JMP, MATLAB, or Mathematica is strongly preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail around laboratory procedures, sample management, and data storage.
• Capable of working independently with limited supervision.
• Strong team oriented professional with good interpersonal skills and a positive outlook
• Ability to communicate ideas and information clearly and effectively (oral and written) to R&D leadership, associates, and other non-technical departments.
• Curios Thinker: continuously question assumptions, explore all angles, challenges the status quo
• Passionate: driven by solving for consumer/customer problems, accepts and takes risks, bold and visionary.
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