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Polymer Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tribonet

Senior Scientist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Apply polymer physics knowledge to guide analytical, research and developmental efforts in support of business needs. * Solve analytical challenges through internal method development activities and ...

DuPont

Senior Polymer & Formulation Scientist

Midland, MI · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

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 ...

Qnity

Senior Scientist

Circleville, OH · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Strong knowledge in polymer synthesis, polymer physics, polymer characterization, and process. * Deep understanding of polymer structure property relationships. * Deep understanding of: * Polymer ...

Qnity Electronics, Inc.

Senior Scientist

Circleville, OH · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Strong knowledge in polymer synthesis, polymer physics, polymer characterization, and process. * Deep understanding of polymer structure property relationships. * Deep understanding of: * Polymer ...

Amrize

Principal Materials Scientist

Fishers, IN

This role bridges theoretical polymer physics and chemistry with practical formulation, ensuring rapid, data-driven product development from benchtop to commercialization. WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH ...

Amrize

Principal Materials Scientist

Fishers, IN · On-site

This role bridges theoretical polymer physics and chemistry with practical formulation, ensuring rapid, data-driven product development from benchtop to commercialization. WHAT YOU'LL ACCOMPLISH ...

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How much do polymer physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for polymer physics in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is polymer physics?

Polymer physics is the branch of physics that studies polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating subunits called monomers. This field focuses on understanding the physical properties, structures, and behaviors of polymers at the molecular and macroscopic levels. Topics in polymer physics include the study of polymer chains, their dynamics, crystallinity, phase transitions, and mechanical properties. Professionals in this field apply principles from physics and chemistry to develop new materials and improve existing polymer products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a polymer physicist?

To thrive as a Polymer Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, chemistry, and materials science, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field. Familiarity with analytical techniques (e.g., spectroscopy, rheology, microscopy), laboratory equipment, and data analysis software is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are vital for conducting groundbreaking research, accurately interpreting experimental results, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in polymer physics, and how can these be addressed?

Professionals in polymer physics often encounter challenges such as characterizing complex molecular structures, interpreting experimental data, and staying current with rapidly evolving analytical techniques. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—such as chemists, materials scientists, and engineers—can help address these issues by pooling expertise and resources. Additionally, ongoing professional development and training in new technologies, along with participation in conferences and industry seminars, are crucial for overcoming technical hurdles and advancing in this field.

What is the difference between Polymer Physics vs Materials Scientist?

AspectPolymer PhysicsMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsDegree in Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Science; often advanced degreesDegree in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Physics; often advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, industrial R&D focused on polymersResearch labs, manufacturing, academia, industry across various materials
Industry UsageSpecialized in understanding polymer behavior and propertiesBroader focus on all materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers
Common Search/ComparisonPolymer Physics vs Materials Scientist

Polymer Physics focuses specifically on the physical properties and behaviors of polymers, often requiring a physics or chemistry background. Materials Scientists have a broader scope, working with various materials including metals, ceramics, and polymers, applying their knowledge to develop new materials and improve existing ones. Both roles are vital in research and industry, but Polymer Physics is more specialized in polymer behavior and properties.

Is polymer physics a good career?

Polymer physics is a specialized field focusing on the properties and behavior of polymers, often requiring a strong background in materials science, chemistry, or physics. Careers in this area can include research, development, and quality control roles in industries such as plastics, biomedical devices, and nanotechnology, often involving laboratory work and advanced degrees. Job prospects depend on industry demand and individual qualifications, with opportunities for innovation and contribution to new materials.
More about Polymer Physics jobs

What job categories do people searching Polymer Physics jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Polymer Physics jobs are:

Polymer Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Scientist, Polymer Synthesis

VioNano Innovations, Inc.

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Location: Cambridge, MA (The Engine, MIT.nano, and Harvard’s Center for Nanoscale Systems)
Job Type: Full-time
The Opportunity

We\'re hiring a Scientist specializing in Polymer Synthesis to join the product development team alongside our CTO, Phil Hustad (PhD Cornell, 24 years at Dow and 3M, 150+ patents). This is a hands‑on lab role where you\'ll own the architectural design, synthesis, and molecular characterization of VioNano’s core polymer platforms. You will have real ownership over experimental direction and synthetic strategies, translating novel chemical concepts into scalable, qualified materials that define our commercial path. If you want to do high‑impact work in an environment where your synthetic expertise is directly visible, this is that job.


What you\'ll do
Advanced Synthesis:

Design and execute complex polymer syntheses using advanced techniques, including anionic and controlled free radical polymerizations, to achieve precise architectures, ultra‑narrow molecular weight distributions, and targeted end‑group chemistry.


Characterization:

Run and interpret rigorous polymer characterization experiments (including GPC/SEC, NMR, MALDI-TOF, and thermal analysis) to validate polymer structure and purity.


Scale-Up & Collaboration:

Drive the transition of successful synthetic routes from bench‑scale exploration to larger R&D quantities, collaborating closely with external contract research organizations (CROs) and internal formulation teams.


Strategic Input:

Partner directly with the CTO to define experimental roadmaps, build IP documentation, and establish repeatable laboratory workflows.


What We\'re Looking For
Required:
Education:

PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field, or equivalent demonstrated capability through industry experience (we\'ll consider exceptional candidates without a PhD who have a strong track record).


Synthetic Mastery:

Deep, hands‑on academic expertise in advanced living or controlled polymerization techniques, specifically anionic polymerization and/or controlled free radical methods (RAFT, ATRP, etc.).


Analytical Rigor:

Proven track record of utilizing advanced characterization tools (GPC, NMR, etc.) to elucidate complex polymer structures.


Resourcefulness:

Comfortable working at lab scale in an agile, early‑stage environment where you can creatively design experiments with limited equipment to yield meaningful results.


Communication:

Strong scientific communication skills, with the ability to write clear experimental reports and present findings to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.


Strongly Preferred:
Polymer Physics:

A strong foundational understanding of polymer physics (e.g., chain thermodynamics, phase separation, thin‑film behavior, or surface dynamics) to help guide material design.


Semiconductor Industry Context:

Familiarity with electronic materials, semiconductor lithography, or surface modification chemistry.


Mindset:

Prior startup experience or a proactive, self‑directed working style where you thrive on solving unmapped technical problems.


What kind of person thrives here:

You\'re someone who is energized by working in a space where the answers aren\'t known yet. You take ownership of problems rather than waiting for direction. You\'re rigorous but pragmatic. You know when a perfect result is worth waiting for and when a good‑enough result unblocks the next step. You want to see your work matter, and you want to work with people who are genuinely excellent.


Why Join VioNano?

The opportunity to be one of the first scientists at a company doing genuinely new work in semiconductor materials


Direct collaboration with a world‑class technical founding team


Daily access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities at The Engine and MIT.nano


Competitive salary and meaningful early‑stage equity


Cambridge, MA location — on‑site (lab work requires physical presence)

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