Location: 

Atlanta R&D, US

Location Details: 

Title:  Research Scientist / Sr. Research Scientist - Paper Coating Formulation

Kemira is a global leader in sustainable chemistry for water intensive industries. For more than 100 years, our chemistry has advanced human progress and quality of life. We call it chemistry with a purpose, better every day. At Kemira, we foster a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive and make a difference. Learn more about Kemira at www.kemira.com/careers.              

     

 

Research Scientist / Sr. Research Scientist – Paper Coating Formulation

 

We are seeking a driven Research Scientist / Sr. Research Scientist for our Pulp & Paper Segment. As a member of the Atlanta R&D, you will be a critical part of a dynamic and diverse technical group focused on the new product development that aligns with Kemira’s growth strategy. 

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

 

  • Partner with multiple functions (Application, Sales, Product line, PSRA, Manufacturing, IP) to develop and commercialize new product in paper coating.
  • Plan, coordinate, and conduct laboratory tests to assess physico-chemical properties and performance of products in Paper Coating applications.
  • Work with raw material suppliers to evaluate new or replacement materials for use in product formulations and ensure that all formulations comply with industry standards, FDA and BfR regulations, and other requirement from customers.
  • Develop application screening techniques to deliver on more representative results applicable to customer specific needs.
  • Assist in installation, operation, maintenance and troubleshooting of specialized equipment designed for paper coating applications. Identify and develop testing methodology to support process and product development.
  • Design custom test procedures, and identify or build custom equipment to test material and product attributes to validate features and benefits of new technologies.
  • Provide scale-up support from laboratory to commercial scale including manufacturing plant and customer site trials.
  • Prepare and present written reports, publications and presentations that are concise, clearly understood and contain appropriate conclusions and recommendations.
  • Contribute to the business and R&D strategy development in the research areas of focus, and proposes new R&D projects to R&D and business leadership teams.
  • Actively manage and execute assigned work and propose new work plans.
  • Some travel (10-20%) to customer and/or manufacturing sites will be required.

 

Educational & Professional Experience Requirements:

 

 

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent area with + 2 years industrial experiences or
  • M.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent area with + 5 years industrial experiences or
  • B.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent area with + 10 years industrial experiences

 

Desired Skills and Experience:

 

  • In-depth knowledge of paper coating processes and technologies.
  • Broad knowledge and experience of paper coating formulation development with an emphasis on barrier coatings or heat seal adhesive coatings.
  • Strong hands-on experiences to evaluate paper barrier properties/heat seal properties and formulate aqueous coatings/adhesives in the lab.
  • First-hand knowledge of the regulatory guidelines (FDA, BfR) in the development of barrier coating/heat seal adhesives.
  • Proven track record in new product development, from concept through to commercialization.
  • Experience in scaling up and trialing paper coating products, converting, laminating, and packaging.
  • Ability to work in time driven fashion, often with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to take initiative to address issues and proactively find solutions.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in technical communication.
  • Must have key focus on safety and the ability to work in a safe fashion unsupervised.
  • Good interpersonal skills – able to work in a multifunctional team environment.
  • Possess good Customer interaction skills.

 

        

Kemira is a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions for water-intensive industries. Our customers include industrial and municipal water treatment operators, and pulp & paper industry among others. We provide the best-suited products and services to improve our customers’ product quality, process, and resource efficiency. Our focus is on water treatment, renewable solutions, and digital services. In 2023, Kemira had annual revenue of around EUR 3.4 billion and around 5,000 employees. Kemira shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd. For more information, please visit our web site www.kemira.com/careers and LinkedIn.