Scientist Job

We are seeking a Scientist to join the Coating Resins business, based in Cary, NC. This position serves as a technical lead in the analytical lab at Arkema Coating Resins. The incumbent will work closely with R&D, technical service, quality, and manufacturing functions at Arkema Coating Resins and Arkema corporate analytical facility. The role requires strong skills in chromatography and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, along with hands-on experience and/or broad understanding of various other analytical techniques. The incumbent is also expected to function as a technical expert in analyzing complex polymeric systems. The incumbent is also expected to have strong self-starting capabilities and problem-solving skills. Work is to be performed in accordance with safe laboratory practices and with active participation in Arkema’s safety initiatives and programs.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Responsible for technical excellence, method development, and collaborative problem solving:

• Serves as a subject matter expert in chromatography (GC, HPLC) and complex Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ensuring accuracy and reliability in methodologies and result interpretation.
• Able to apply in-depth analytical knowledge to troubleshoot method-related issues and optimize the existing standard operating procedure for improved performance as needed.
• Develops sufficient understanding of Arkema Coating Resins product polymer chemistry and closely collaborate with Arkema Coating Resins R&D team.
• Analyzes complex polymeric systems, such as emulsion polymers, utilizing various techniques (e.g., FTIR, DSC, GPC), and issues technical reports.
• Able to propose and lead new method development projects, from conception to validation, to support R&D initiatives.
• Develops deep understanding of analytical capabilities Arkema corporate analytical facilities; able to recommend appropriate techniques and connect scientists and engineers from Arkema Coating Resins with analytical specialists at corporate analytical facility.
• Serves as resource for functions outside R&D. For example, serves as a partner for supply chain/sourcing and can lead technical aspects of second source project and/or perform experiments to resolve raw material problems.
• Leads the implementation and maintenance of modern data management system, such as Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

Driving continuous improvement:

• Stay up to date on recent developments in advanced analytical techniques; Look for opportunities to integrate new technologies and methodologies to enhance Cary analytical capabilities. Works with R&D capital planning and site facilities teams to select, purchase, and install new instruments.
• Develops extensive professional network with Arkema Inc. scientists; actively participates in appropriate professional organizations and pursues opportunities to publish/present externally.
• Develops general understanding of Arkema Coating Resins business and market interests.

Required Education/Qualifications/Work Experience:

• PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or other related technical field with 0-5 years of relevant industrial experience.
• Strong skills with chromatography techniques (GC, HPLC, HPLC/MS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), with demonstrated success in new method development and validation.
• General knowledge and hands on experience using GPC, DSC, optical microscopy, zeta potential, particle size analysis, and titration. Expected to have or quickly develop the necessary expertise for troubleshooting, repair of these techniques.
• Previous experience in analyzing complex polymeric systems, especially emulsion polymers, is highly desired.

HES Requirement:

• Actively promotes safe behavior in the workgroup and takes responsibility for personal safe lab operations, such as safely handles hazardous materials, or materials of unknown hazards, using good laboratory practices.
• Supports the site HES policy and complies with all regulatory and internal requirements.
• Serves as a resource for HES for regulatory questions on products/raw materials in area of expertise.
• Participates in HES activities provided by site management and Arkema Inc. (e.g., Behavioral Base Safety, SafeStart, etc.)
• Supports and promotes the reporting of all health, safety, environmental, near-miss, accident, or injury incidents.

Demonstrated Competencies:

• Demonstrated track record of technical success, technical knowledge, and publications.
• Understanding of the coatings industry.
• Business acumen
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Proficient in computer applications including SAP; Lotus Notes; Microsoft Office; Excel; MS Project and PowerPoint. 
• Ability to resolve issues in a collaborative manner for the overall satisfaction of key stakeholders, customers, and suppliers.
• Strong communication and goal alignment skills between other functional areas.