Ph.D. Chemist - Polymer & Formulations R&D
DuPont, Midland, MI, United States
At DuPont, our purpose is to empower the world with essential innovations to thrive. We work on things that matter. Whether it’s providing clean water to more than a billion people on the planet, producing materials that are essential in everyday technology devices from smartphones to electric vehicles, or protecting workers around the world.
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. The position is on‑site at our Midland, MI R&D center and hands‑on laboratory work is a core expectation.
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, preferably 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
Benefits
DuPont offers a comprehensive pay and benefits package. To learn more visit the Compensation and Benefits page.
Equal Opportunity Statement
DuPont is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class. If you need a reasonable accommodation to search or apply for a position, please visit our Accessibility Page for Contact Information.
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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. The position is on‑site at our Midland, MI R&D center and hands‑on laboratory work is a core expectation.
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, preferably 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
Benefits
DuPont offers a comprehensive pay and benefits package. To learn more visit the Compensation and Benefits page.
Equal Opportunity Statement
DuPont is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class. If you need a reasonable accommodation to search or apply for a position, please visit our Accessibility Page for Contact Information.
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