Researcher I

AkzoNobel; Sassenheim; On-site; EUR 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

AkzoNobel is seeking a Researcher I in the Netherlands to contribute to multidisciplinary coating technologies. You design and perform laboratory experiments, interpret results and translate findings into practical solutions for the business.

You will collaborate with scientists and technicians across the Innovation Group, coordinate lab activities and share knowledge globally while maintaining high safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• PhD in Material Science, Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• Knowledge of coatings, paints or related materials is an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a scientific mindset.
• Collaborative approach and ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with ability to engage stakeholders at different levels.
• Experience with coaching and supporting colleagues is a plus.
• Fluency in English; Dutch skills are a plus.
• Proactive, curious and innovative attitude towards developing new technologies.
• Strong commitment to quality, lab excellence, and HSE standards.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to multidisciplinary research projects by planning and executing laboratory work.
• Design, conduct and evaluate chemical and physical experiments, including sample prep and testing.
• Analyze data and present conclusions in technical reports and presentations.
• Provide scientific expertise in materials science to support R&D projects.
• Identify new research opportunities through literature and collaboration.
• Collaborate with scientists, technicians and project teams across R&D.
• Coordinate laboratory activities to ensure timely project delivery.
• Provide guidance and technical support to chemists and technicians where appropriate.
• Share knowledge and research outcomes with colleagues globally.
• Maintain safe working practices and comply with HSE standards.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

PhD in Materials Science or Chemistry

Job description

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Researcher I

Date: Aug 28, 2026

About AkzoNobel

Since 1792, we've been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people's lives and protect what matters most. Our world class portfolio of brands - including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon - is trusted by customers around the globe. We're active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance the fabric of everyday life. Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It's what you'd expect from a pioneering and long-established paints company that’s dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today - while creating an even better tomorrow. Let's paint the future together.

What you will do

As a Researcher, you will contribute to multidisciplinary research projects focused on developing innovative coating technologies. You will design and perform laboratory experiments, interpret scientific results and translate findings into practical solutions for the business.

Your responsibilities include:

• Contributing to research projects by translating project objectives into experimental plans and executing laboratory work.
• Designing, conducting and evaluating chemical and physical experiments, including sample preparation and analytical testing.
• Analysing experimental data and presenting conclusions through technical reports and presentations.
• Providing scientific expertise in materials science to support research projects across the Innovation Group.
• Identifying new research opportunities through scientific literature, emerging technologies and collaboration with colleagues.
• Collaborating closely with scientists, technicians and project teams across multiple R&D disciplines.
• Coordinating laboratory activities to ensure high-quality execution and timely project delivery.
• Providing guidance and technical support to chemists and laboratory technicians where appropriate.
• Sharing knowledge and communicating research outcomes effectively with colleagues throughout the global R&D organisation.
• Working safely at all times while complying with laboratory procedures, health, safety and environmental standards.

What you will bring

• PhD in Material Science, Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• Knowledge of coatings, paints or related materials is an advantage.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a scientific mindset.
• A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at different levels.
• Experience with, or an interest in, coaching and supporting colleagues.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken. Dutch language skills, or a willingness to learn Dutch, are a plus.
• A proactive, curious and innovative attitude with a passion for developing new technologies.
• A strong commitment to quality, laboratory excellence, and Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) standards.

Why join AkzoNobel?

At AkzoNobel, you'll become part of a global leader in paints and coatings where innovation, sustainability and collaboration drive everything we do. We offer a stimulating international R&D environment, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work on technologies that have a real impact on customers and industries worldwide

At AkzoNobel we are highly committed to ensuring an inclusive and respectful workplace where all employees can be their best self. We strive to embrace diversity in a context of tolerance. Our talent acquisition process plays an integral part in this journey, as setting the foundations for a diverse environment. For this reason we train and educate on the implications of our Unconscious Bias in order for our TA and hiring managers to be mindful of them and take corrective actions when applicable. In our organization, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age or disability.