Research Scientist - Adhesives and Coatings Job

We are seeking a hands-on Research Scientist to lead the development of solvent-based and water-based copolyester adhesives and coatings, specifically for Bostik’s Vitel® copolyester product line. This role supports innovation and product maintenance in food and industrial flexible packaging applications, with a strong focus on customer engagement and cross-functional collaboration.

Job Dimensions

• Drive new product development and product line maintenance for Vitel® copolyester adhesives and coatings. Applications cover food and industrial markets using this technology.
• Material science and application expertise in the flexible packaging market is necessary.
• Collaborate with regulatory, analytical, supply chain, tech service, sales, and manufacturing teams to support product development and troubleshooting.
• Work productively in the lab to support all R&D projects for the assigned market/technology with accuracy, precision, and responsiveness.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation and present findings to internal teams. Utilize electronic lab notebook.
• Ensure adherence to safety policies, 5S lab practices, and quality protocols.

Activities

• Execute bench-scale synthesis using condensation polymerization, including safe handling of isocyanates and solvents.
• Design, plan and conduct experiments using design of experiments (DoE) methodology; analyze data and draw actionable conclusions. Work with legal team to review freedom to operate.
• Translate lab results into scalable, commercialized products; support plant-scale production.
• Support internal and external customers with technical guidance, including issue resolution and continuous improvement.
• Complete necessary testing of new ideas and products, leading to the submission of invention disclosures or patents.
• Operate in compliance with site safety EHS policies and quality management systems.
• Follow applicable work instructions or standard operating procedures. Recognize deviations from routines.
• Identify improvements in test methods, validate them, and update work instructions/ standard operating procedures as applicable.

Accountabilities

Product line ownership from R&D perspective and maintenance as well as new product development of copolyester products.

Manage technical projects by completion of lab analyses and pilot trials leading to commercialization of new products. Be a strong team player. Follow stage gate process and manage projects to completion with timeliness.

Lead problem resolution through a thorough understanding of the issue.

Effective and efficient use of Bostik resources and coordination of support from other Bostik functions with responsiveness and a commitment to timelines.

What you’ll Bring

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Material Science, or related field.
• 2+ years of industry experience in adhesives or coatings development.

Preferred Skills

• Expertise in polyester synthesis and formulation of water- and solvent-based systems.
• Deep knowledge of polymer chemistry and structure–property relationships.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience with statistical analysis, DoE, and stage gate processes.

Additional Details

• ~10–20% domestic travel.
• Requires independent lab work, problem-solving, and close coordination with global R&D.
• Strong emphasis on ethical, safe, and sustainable lab practices.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future. Sponsorship will not be provided.