Researcher

Department: Innovation & Technology 

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Travel Involved: <10%

Braskem is searching for a committed and creative laboratory researcher to join the Advanced Analytics group at Innovation & Technology Center in Pittsburgh, PA. This professional will provide hands-on technical support for Polymer Development and carry out fundamental studies in order to assist in the advancement and development of more sustainable materials and processes.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Safe operations: stay current on all safety training, participate in necessary safety audits, effectively manage and maintain excellent laboratory housekeeping as well as standard operating procedures.
• Preparing and handling catalysts and other air-sensitive materials.
• Operating bench scale polymerization reactors, performing reactor modifications, and execute small molecules synthesis.
• Prepare samples and perform lab experiments using analytical techniques like spectroscopy, chromatography, rheology, thermal analysis, etc, providing reliable and precise data to support projects.
• Ability to use computers and software; performing mathematical calculations to analyze and interpret results; and prepare presentations (graphs, etc.).
• Ensure efficient laboratory operations, seeking for improvements and automation as well as overseeing the necessary calibrations, supplies, troubleshooting and maintenance.
• Providing creative and scientific solutions to a range of complex, and/or difficult problems in the area of polymer characterization.
• Performing hands-on research and develop advanced characterization capabilities.
• Effectively work within a project team of experts from various disciplines to successfully meeting project milestones and timelines.
• Keeping up to date with technical developments in polymerization technology and polymer science.

Requirements:

• Driven to deliver quality results (attention to detail), self-motivated and pro-active (takes initiative). 
• Good verbal and written communication skills, demonstrate critical judgment in decision making and have the ability to follow detailed procedures (including safety procedures). 
• Basic proficiency with laboratory activities and safety skills is expected (MSDS awareness, chemical handling and storage, waste disposal).
• Basic understanding of data analysis and familiarity with computer software (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, etc.).
• Inquisitive (curious), always willing to learn new things and grow in responsibilities.

Preferred Skills, Education, and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering preferred. 
• Previous experience in laboratory polymerization techniques is desirable, particularly polycondensation and ring opening polymerizations.
• Familiarity with basic polymer characterization is desired (techniques like NMR spectroscopy, DSC, and SEC).
• 5 years industry experience preferred, but not required.