Senior Polymer & Formulation Scientist

DuPont; Midland (MI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

DuPont’s Shelter Solutions R&D Product Team in Midland, Michigan seeks an Organic or Polymer Scientist to drive formulation, synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced polymer systems, applying organic chemistry principles to solve complex materials challenges and develop innovative customer‑focused solutions.

Our Midland‑based team is collaborative, hands‑on, and focused on next‑generation products addressing evolving marketplace needs.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or a related discipline.
• Strong foundation in organic chemistry, including physical, mechanistic, and synthetic principles.
• Broad understanding of condensation polymerization systems, including reaction mechanisms and kinetics.
• Experience with condensation polymerizations, preferably with polyurethanes.
• Familiarity with characterization techniques for polymers and small molecules.
• Basic understanding of structure–property relationships and polymer physics.
• Ability to identify and pursue suitable approaches to polymer modification as needed.
• Proven ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, including leading portions of technical programs.
• Knowledge of fire science and experience with fire testing methods is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain deep technical knowledge of relevant scientific literature, patents, and industry trends
• Apply strong experimental design and innovative problem‑solving skills to address R&D challenges
• Design, execute, analyze, and interpret bench‑scale polymer syntheses, formulations, and characterization experiments using standard laboratory equipment
• Work effectively both independently and as part of cross‑functional project teams
• Document experimental work and results in a timely manner using LIMS, internal technical reports, patent disclosures, and external publications as appropriate
• Communicate results, insights, and project progress through clear oral and written presentations to technical teams, management, and business leadership
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of the organization
• Show initiative, adaptability, and a desire to embrace new opportunities and drive successful outcomes

Skills

Strong foundation in organic chemistry

Condensation polymerization systems

Polyurethane formulation & synthesis

Structure–property relationships

Interdisciplinary teamwork leadership

Polymer characterization knowledge

Fire science knowledge

Education

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or related discipline

Tools

Polymer characterization techniques

LIMS familiarity

Job description

At DuPont, our purpose is to empower the world with essential innovations to thrive. We work on things that matter. Whether it’s providing clean water to more than a billion people on the planet, producing materials that are essential in everyday technology devices from smartphones to electric vehicles, or protecting workers around the world. Discover the many reasons the world’s most talented people are choosing to work at DuPont.

DuPont’s Shelter Solutions business is a global leader in value‑added solutions for the building and construction industry, including weatherization, air sealing, thermal comfort, and fire protection systems. Shelter Solutions brings together trusted, market‑leading brands such as Great Stuff™, Styrofoam™ and Tyvek® into one customer‑focused portfolio.

Position Summary

We are seeking an Organic or Polymer Scientist to join our Shelter Solutions R&D Product Team in Midland, Michigan. In this role, you will drive the formulation, synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced polymer systems, applying organic chemistry principles to solve complex materials challenges and develop innovative customer‑focused solutions.

Our Midland‑based team is a collaborative group of scientists and engineers who combine scientific rigor with creative problem‑solving to advance next‑generation products that address evolving marketplace needs. While the position is supported by experienced laboratory technicians and technologists, maintaining an active, hands‑on presence in the laboratory is an essential part of the role.

Experience in condensation polymerization chemistry is preferred, with polyurethane formulation and synthesis expertise considered a strong advantage.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain deep technical knowledge of relevant scientific literature, patents, and industry trends
• Apply strong experimental design and innovative problem‑solving skills to address R&D challenges
• Design, execute, analyze, and interpret bench‑scale polymer syntheses, formulations, and characterization experiments using standard laboratory equipment
• Work effectively both independently and as part of cross‑functional project teams
• Document experimental work and results in a timely manner using LIMS, internal technical reports, patent disclosures, and external publications as appropriate
• Communicate results, insights, and project progress through clear oral and written presentations to technical teams, management, and business leadership
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of the organization
• Show initiative, adaptability, and a desire to embrace new opportunities and drive successful outcomes

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, or a related discipline
• Strong foundation in organic chemistry, including physical, mechanistic, and synthetic principles
• Broad understanding of condensation polymerization systems, including reaction mechanisms and kinetics
• Experience with condensation polymerizations, preferable with polyurethanes
• Familiarity with characterization techniques for polymers and small molecules
• Basic understanding of structure–property relationships and polymer physics
• Ability to identify and pursue suitable approaches to polymer modification as needed
• Proven ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary team environments, including leading portions of technical programs to meet team objectives
• Knowledge of fire science and experience with fire testing methods is highly preferred

DuPont is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class. If you need a reasonable accommodation to search or apply for a position, please visit our Accessibility Page for Contact Information.

DuPont offers a comprehensive pay and benefits package. To learn more visit the Compensation and Benefits page.