Research Specialist

Hartalega; Sepang; On-site; MYR 180,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Hartalega in Malaysia is seeking a PhD-level Research Lead to identify, propose and manage breakthrough research on new products and processes in polymer science. You will drive experiments, analyse data, and translate findings into scalable developments with R&D and supply chain teams.

The role requires leadership in innovation, DOE proficiency, and a track record of at least one commercialized project. You will build external collaborations and communicate results to stakeholders.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry/ Polymer Science/ Material Science/ Polymer Engineering/ Material Engineering/ Applied Chemistry or equivalent

Responsibilities

• Identify, propose and manage industry leading innovation and breakthrough research.
• Plan and conduct research, propose experiments and analyse data to test hypotheses to enhance understanding of products and processes and to provide inventive solutions toward new development efforts.
• Apply sophisticated scientific or engineering understanding to research or development problems, ideas or projects.
• Create and protect intellectual property for the company. Work with legal advisors/ authorities in IP investigation and generating activities.
• Incorporate the developed technology into the process and/or product and work with R&D Managers in scaling up and commercialisation.
• Collaborate effectively with R&D team and function in supply chain throughout product development cycle.
• Keep abreast and continue to assess new technology potential by attending conferences & seminars, reviewing research publications, technical literature, patents, market research papers and suppliers.
• Establish and maintain exceptional working relationships with external industry stakeholders, research bodies, academic and professional institutions and suppliers.
• Communicate research results to stakeholders through reports and presentations.

Education

PhD in Chemistry/ Polymer Science/ Material Science/ Polymer Engineering/ Material Engineering/ Applied Chemistry or equivalent

Job description

OVERVIEW

• Identify, propose, manage innovation and breakthrough research on new products and process focusing on the following four (4) aspects:
• Customer Acceptance
• Commercial Feasibility
• Regulatory and Market Compliance
• Cost Compliance (if required)

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Identify, propose and manage industry leading innovation and breakthrough research.
• Plan and conduct research, propose experiments and analyse data to test hypotheses to enhance understanding of products and processes and to provide inventive solutions toward new development efforts.
• Apply sophisticated scientific or engineering understanding to research or development problems, ideas or projects.
• Create and protect intellectual property for the company. Work with legal advisors/ authorities in IP investigation and generating activities.
• Incorporate the developed technology into the process and/or product and work with R&D Managers in scaling up and commercialisation.
• Collaborate effectively with R&D team and function in supply chain throughout product development cycle.
• Keep abreast and continue to assess new technology potential by attending conferences & seminars, reviewing research publications, technical literature, patents, market research papers and suppliers.
• Establish and maintain exceptional working relationships with external industry stakeholders, research bodies, academic and professional institutions and suppliers.
• Communicate research results to stakeholders through reports and presentations.

REQUIREMENTS

• PhD in Chemistry/ Polymer Science/ Material Science/ Polymer Engineering/ Material Engineering/ Applied Chemistry or equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.
• Minimum 3 years in leading and managing innovative and breakthrough research on new products and processes. At least 1 successful project commercialized.
• Sound knowledge in DOE and other established and benchmark R&D Methodologies.