We are seeking a Sr. Research Scientist to join the Coating Resins business, based in Cary, NC. This role will report to the Coating Materials Technical Leader. The objective of the incumbent will be to identify potential new resin technologies for unmet needs in coatings markets with an emphasis on Decorative (Architectural) and Industrial Coatings. The incumbent will be expected to advance technical concepts to develop and commercialize new products that provide differentiated performance in the marketplace and develop innovative polymer solutions that align with business objectives. Primary technology practiced will be emlusion polymerization.

• Works closely with peer group to ensure development and propagation of best practices and functional excellence.
• Work directly with legal team to determine IP landscape, ensure strategic IP differentiation and pursue IP filings aggressively.
• Builds strong internal and external networks in industry and academia, including Arkema R&D peers globally.
• Functions as an effective team player, with leadership of small multifunctional teams at department level.
• Mentors and provides technical direction of more junior staff (e.g., students, chemists, technicians).
• Works to influence decision makers inside the division.
• Up to 15% travel is required.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Responsible for the development and commercialization of new technologies and product concepts. Seeks to implement innovative solutions to problems through composition, process (primarily emulsion polymerization), raw material, and formulation understanding.

• Use market and technical knowledge and insights to identify new development directions and define projects. Monitors technical literature to develop strong understanding of relevant external technologies and leverage to internal needs.
• Tackles projects with significant technical complexity and ensures high level of technical excellence through: sound use of scientific principles, critical thinking, creative problem solving, analytical understanding, open and honest communication of best practices.
• Designs project plans, technical approaches, timelines, deliverables and IP strategies. Directs project teams in the execution of project plans.
• Lead regional and global technical project teams. Coordinates appropriate resources across the cross-functional team to ensure alignment and delivery of technical goals.
• Effectively represents the department at multiple levels within the company. Provides timely project updates, presentations, and reports to peer and business stakeholders. Build strong network within the Arkema R&D community regionally and globally. Collaborate with other Arkema BUs to identify and leverage opportunities for cross-BU developments.
• Fosters an interdependent safety culture in all activities. Ensures safe operations in all activities.

Required Education/Qualifications/Work Experience:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science/Engineering, Material Science, or related field strongly desired, with 10+ years of experience.
• Seasoned professional level understanding, interpretation, and application of theory, concepts, and knowledge in Coatings and/or Emulsion Polymerization.
• A demonstrated track record of technical success, technical knowledge, publications, and patents.
• Proficient in computer software's: Microsoft Office, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Experience with design of experiment (DOE) and statistical analysis methodologies.

Demonstrated Competencies:

This position is responsible for development of innovative technologies and new intellectual property and recommendation of growth opportunities.

• Operates at department level and manages day-to-day lab operations. Frequently generates new technical insights or directions from project work.
• Identifies patentable technology proactively and secures composition of matter, application, and process patents.
• Monitors and share broadly relevant technology in area of expertise.
• Publishes/presents in field of expertise. Generates research reports including complex data analysis, interpretation, and recommendations.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple projects, influence project direction, and lead project teams to bring successful commercial innovation.
• Cross functional and regional effectiveness. Excellent understanding of commercialization processes and good business acumen.
• Presents at conference and/or conventions as a subject matter expert.
• Competencies in polymer synthesis (emulsion polymerization preferred) and structure property relationships.
• Support the site HES policy and complies with all regulatory and internal requirements.
• 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.