Sr. Scientist
UW Solutions · Pittsburgh, PA · 3 wk ago
Research$100/hrFull-time
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and formulation of UV/EB-curable coatings (acrylate, methacrylate, epoxy, cationic, hybrid systems).
- Apply deep understanding of structure–property relationships to optimize adhesion, hardness, flexibility, chemical resistance, weatherability, optical properties, cure response, and gloss level.
- Develop and optimize low-gloss and matte coatings using controlled incompatibility, surface topology control, matting agents, phase separation, and cure kinetics.
- Formulate coatings compatible with roll coating, spray, curtain coating, vacuum coating, and flow/slot-die coating.
- Establish relationships between molecular structure, formulation, processing conditions, substrate characteristics, and surface morphology.
- Troubleshoot formulation, application, gloss, adhesion, and scale-up challenges.
- Define technical objectives, experimental plans, and success criteria aligned with business and application needs.
- Communicate progress, risks, and tradeoffs to cross-functional stakeholders.
- Ensure formulations are robust, scalable, and deliver consistent appearance and performance.
- Mentor junior and mid-level chemists in formulation strategy, gloss control, and application-aware formulation.
- Promote best practices in experimental design, data quality, and documentation.
- Collaborate with application engineering, manufacturing, quality, sales, and customers.
Requirements
- PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science (highly preferred).
- 5–10+ years of industrial experience in UV/EB-curable coatings including free-radical, EB, cationic, or dual-cure systems.
- Demonstrated expertise in structure–property–performance relationships.
- Proven experience with low-gloss or matte coatings.
- Experience with multiple substrates and coating application methods.
- Track record of leading technical projects to commercialization.
- Familiarity with rheology, FTIR cure monitoring, DMA, surface roughness, and gloss measurement.
- Prior experience mentoring or leading chemists and technicians.
- Strategic application of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies to drive business outcomes, enhance decision-making, and improve operational efficiency.
Qualifications
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Skills
- UV/EB-curable coatings formulation and development.
- Structure–property–performance relationships in coatings.
- Low-gloss and matte coating formulation and optimization.
- Multiple substrate compatibility and application methods.
- Artificial intelligence tools and technologies.
Benefits
We care about and invest in our employees. We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being and foster professional development. Here is a glimpse of what you can look forward to if you join our team.
- Competitive Benefits Package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability)
- Incentive Plans
- 401(k) with employer contribution and match
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match
- Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time)
- Paid Holidays
- Tuition Reimbursement Program
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Wellness Program
- Training and Career Progression
Pay
Commensurate with experience.
Schedule
N/A