Senior R&D Scientist – Surface & Colloid Sciences

Overview:

Senior R&D Scientist – Surface & Colloid Sciences is responsible for developing state-of-art knowledge and competencies for surface and colloid chemistry and application testing of biosurfactants and other bio-based materials. This includes developing and optimizing the next generation biosurfactants and related products to meet industry demands in various areas including agriculture, oilfield, mining, household and industrial, personal care, food & beverages, etc.

Key Responsibilities & Tasks: 

• Incorporates safe work procedures in all processes while maintaining a safe work environment in the lab.
• Leads activities of the surface & colloid science laboratory in liaison with the key internal stakeholders (R&D, Sales, Business Development) from concept to lab and field validation and product commercialization through a stage gated process.
• Mentors and leads technologist and scientists while implementing a culture of safety and laboratory best practices to meet projects progress based on technology and business roadmaps.
• Takes an analytical approach to problem solving, with a focus on managing a team environment with attention to results and a sense of urgency.
• Interfaces with internal business and technical players to obtain insight into their technical needs and to identify opportunities to collaborate with them on new projects.
• Supports business development and growth by building relationships between the corporate R&D, internal business units and external partners
• Under the guidance of the VP of R&D and Innovation, executes the defined intellectual property strategy associated with new technology development and ensure that new product and technology developments are unique in nature and patentable.
• Communicates the science and technology of Locus Fermentation Solutions products and services via scientific and industry recognized publications and conference presentations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications & Skills: 

• MSc or PhD in science or engineering specialized in surface and colloid sciences required.
• Minimum of 3 years of proven and progressive experience in working in an industrial R&D environment.
• Entrepreneurial DNA, specifically the ability to understand and apply novel scientific methodologies to solve industry problems is required.
• Demonstrated experience and applied knowledge of surfactants in industry required.
• Experience to demonstrate strong leadership skills with an orientation to team development and customer focus required.
• Proven track of project management skills.
• Ability to travel up to 10% of time required.

Locus Fermentation Solutions

Locus FS uses patented production technology with a near-zero carbon footprint to develop novel bio-based solutions as safer, greener chemical alternatives with better performance. Each one is customized to effectively address large pain points in top global industries, including agriculture, energy, CPG products, animal nutrition and more.