Chief Scientist

Zhejiang Zongheng Human Resources Co., Ltd.; Kentucky; On-site; USD 180,000 - 270,000; Full time

Job summary

Zhejiang Zongheng Human Resources Co., Ltd. seeks an accomplished leader in polymer R&D to identify and initiate forward-looking projects for PPR, PE, PVC, and other specialty pipe compounds.

The role defines technical roadmaps and ensures scientific rigor and commercial relevance across research directions. The candidate will lead formulation, modification, and processing technology programs, leveraging extrusion and injection molding to overcome performance bottlenecks and drive

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Materials Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum 15 years of R&D experience, including at least 5 years in a senior technical leadership role.
• Profound knowledge of PP/PE/PVC modification mechanisms, compounding strategies, and processing technologies (extrusion, injection molding).

Responsibilities

• Identify and initiate forward-looking R&D projects for polymer pipe compounds.
• Lead experimental programs in chemical modification, physical blending, and additive compounding of polymers.
• Optimize molding and processing parameters to resolve manufacturing defects and improve product quality.

Skills

Technical leadership

R&D leadership

Fluency in English

Education

Ph.D. in Polymer Science

15+ years R&D experience

Tools

DSC

GPC

Rheometer

Job description

• Frontier Research & Project Initiation：Stay abreast of cutting-edge developments in polymer science; align with corporate strategy to lead the identification and initiation of forward-looking R&D projects for PPR, PE, PVC, and other specialty pipe compounds. Define technical roadmaps and ensure the scientific rigor and commercial relevance of all research directions.
• Material Formulation & Modification：Lead experimental programs in chemical modification, physical blending, and additive compounding of polymers. Focus on overcoming critical performance bottlenecks, including thermal resistance, pressure rating, low-temperature impact toughness, and long-term creep resistance, to achieve step-change improvements in material properties.
• Molding Process Optimization：Deeply engage in extrusion, injection molding, and related conversion technologies. Optimize processing parameters and tooling designs to systematically resolve manufacturing defects such as voids, weld lines, and dimensional instability, thereby enhancing product quality and consistency.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience：Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Materials Engineering, or a closely related field. Minimum 15 years of R&D experience, including at least 5 years in a senior technical leadership role.
• Technical Expertise：Profound knowledge of PP/PE/PVC modification mechanisms, compounding strategies, and processing technologies (extrusion, injection molding). Solid grounding in polymer physics and rheology. Proficient in advanced analytical instrumentation (e.g., DSC, GPC, rheometer) for reverse engineering and failure diagnostics. Demonstrated track record of shepherding innovations from lab-scale discovery to full industrial production.
• Industry Network & Global Perspective：Recognized technical reputation and extensive professional network in the polymer community, with established connections to top universities, research institutes, and industry partners. Fluency in English to effectively track international advances and engage in global academic exchanges.