Polymer Research Chemist: Synthesis, Analysis & Scale-Up

Stepan Company; Northfield (CT); On-site; USD 86,000 - 133,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary Bonus

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

401K with Match

Profit Sharing

PTO

STD/LTD

FSA

HSA

Parental Leave

Adoption Assistance

Recognition Program

EAP

Job summary

Stepan Company in Northfield, CT is seeking a Research Chemist in the Polymer Group to drive strategic projects, synthesize polymers, analyze formulations, and develop business cases for long-term initiatives.

The role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, scaling up processes for new polyol routes, and performing analytical tests (NMR/FTIR/GPC/TGA) while presenting results to stakeholders. A strong chemistry/materials background is required.

Qualifications

• Strong thermodynamic understanding applied to lab experiments and plant processes.
• Experience integrating AI/ML, predictive modeling, and autonomous research tools into workflows.
• Strong organizational, writing, and communication skills.
• Solid understanding of analytical capabilities for organic molecules (NMR, FTIR, GPC, TGA).
• Understanding of structure–property relationships of polymers.

Responsibilities

• Organic and polymer synthesis, including kinetic and process-related experiments.
• Polyurethane foam formulating and physical property testing.
• Analytical testing for polyol projects (NMR, FTIR, GPC, etc.).
• Scale-up and process development for new polyol processes.
• Pilot-scale development of new polyurethane foams.
• Contribute to safety and waste programs and adhere to policies.
• Conceive projects contributing to company growth and collaborate across functions.
• Communicate project results to internal and external customers.

Skills

Thermodynamics

AI/ML in research

Communication

Analytical chemistry

Structure-property relationships

Education

BS in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering with 8+ years of industrial experience

PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering with 0-5 years of industrial experience

Tools

NMR

FTIR

GPC

TGA

Job description

Stepan Company in Northfield, CT is seeking a Research Chemist in the Polymer Group to drive strategic projects, synthesize polymers, analyze formulations, and develop business cases for long-term initiatives.

The role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, scaling up processes for new polyol routes, and performing analytical tests (NMR/FTIR/GPC/TGA) while presenting results to stakeholders. A strong chemistry/materials background is required.