Ph.D. Chemist - Polymer & Formulations R&D

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DuPont’s Performance Building Solutions (PBS) business is a global leader in value‑added solutions for the building and construction industry, including weatherization, air sealing, thermal comfort, and fire protection systems. PBS brings together trusted, market‑leading brands such as Great Stuff™, Styrofoam™, and Tyvek® into one customer‑focused portfolio.

PBS is at the forefront of advancing building science—developing innovative solutions that improve construction productivity and enable more sustainable, resilient building materials and practices.

The PBS R\&D Product Team in Midland, Michigan is a diverse, collaborative group of scientists and engineers dedicated to disciplined, creative problem‑solving and the development of next‑generation products that address unmet customer needs.

Position Summary

We are seeking a

Ph.D.-level Organic or Polymer Chemist

to join our R\&D Product Team. This role focuses on the formulation, synthesis, processing, and characterization of polymers, with a strong emphasis on applying organic chemistry fundamentals to real‑world materials challenges.

This position is on-site at our Midland, MI R\&D center. While the role is supported by skilled laboratory technicians and technologists, hands‑on laboratory work is a core expectation.

Experience with condensation polymerizations, and especially polyurethane systems, is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain deep technical knowledge of relevant scientific literature, patents, and industry trends
• Apply strong experimental design and innovative problem‑solving skills to address R\&D challenges
• Design, execute, analyze, and interpret bench‑scale polymer syntheses, formulations, and characterization experiments using standard laboratory equipment
• Work effectively both independently and as part of cross‑functional project teams
• Document experimental work and results in a timely manner using LIMS, internal technical reports, patent disclosures, and external publications as appropriate
• Communicate results, insights, and project progress through clear oral and written presentations to technical teams, management, and business leadership
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of the organization
• Show initiative, adaptability, and a desire to embrace new opportunities and drive successful outcomes

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or a related discipline
• Strong foundation in organic chemistry, including physical, mechanistic, and synthetic principles
• Broad understanding of condensation polymerization systems, including reaction mechanisms and kinetics
• Experience with condensation polymerizations, preferable with polyurethanes
• Familiarity with characterization techniques for polymers and small molecules
• Basic understanding of structure–property relationships and polymer physics
• Ability to identify and pursue suitable approaches to polymer modification as needed
• Proven ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary team environments, including leading portions of technical programs to meet team objectives
• Knowledge of fire science and experience with fire testing methods is highly preferred

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