Innovation Research Lead - Breakthroughs & Processes

Hartalega Holdings Berhad; Sepang; On-site; MYR 134,000 - 201,000; Full time

Job summary

Hartalega Holdings Berhad is seeking a Researcher Associate - Innovation to lead small teams and drive breakthrough R&D for new products and process improvements. The role focuses on translating designs into technical requirements, coordinating cross-functional activities, and managing project execution with emphasis on patentable outcomes.

The candidate should hold a Ph.D in relevant fields and have track-records of launching commercialised projects, with experience in governance and team

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or Material Science or related fields.
• Minimum 6 years leading innovative R&D on new products/processes.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in patent registration (local and international).
• At least 2 successful projects commercialised.

Responsibilities

• Execute project strategies to deliver breakthrough innovation, product development, process improvements, and cost efficiency within projects.
• Translate customer design inputs into clear technical requirements, development approaches, and project execution plans.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment, translate project priorities into actionable plans, and monitor project progress.
• Apply R&D frameworks, experimental design principles, and best practices; facilitate cross-functional brainstorming and identify patentable innovations and technical claims.
• Act as the escalation point for technical issues, identify and mitigate project-level technical risks, and escalate unresolved issues as required.
• Develop team capabilities and skills through coaching, mentoring, and support for recruitment, development, and retention initiatives.
• Lead project-level continuous improvement and innovation initiatives, supporting incremental innovations and project enhancements.
• Coordinate experiments or trials with external partners, ensuring accurate documentation and technical feedback.
• Perform additional duties as required to meet project and functional objectives.

Education

Ph.D in Chemistry/Polymer Science/Material Science/Polymer Engineering/Material Engineering/Applied Chemistry

Job description

Hartalega Holdings Berhad is seeking a Researcher Associate - Innovation to lead small teams and drive breakthrough R&D for new products and process improvements. The role focuses on translating designs into technical requirements, coordinating cross-functional activities, and managing project execution with emphasis on patentable outcomes.

The candidate should hold a Ph.D in relevant fields and have track-records of launching commercialised projects, with experience in governance and team