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Polymer Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NCSL International

NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic ... Polymer Pyrolysis Search Software) to include a greater number of common consumer plastics, 2) ...

New York University

POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

New York, NY · On-site

$75K/yr

Executing experimental research for this project under the direction of Prof. Korley focused on the ... The overall objective is to valorize waste products to enhance polymer sustainability efforts.

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How much do polymer research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for polymer research associate in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a polymer research associate do?

A Polymer Research Associate is responsible for conducting experiments and analyses to develop new polymer materials or improve existing ones. They work in laboratories to synthesize, characterize, and test polymers used in a wide range of products, from plastics to biomedical devices. Their work often involves collaborating with scientists and engineers, documenting findings, and ensuring that materials meet industry standards. This role is crucial for advancing material science and supporting the development of innovative products.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Research Associate, a strong background in chemistry, materials science, and polymer synthesis, typically supported by a relevant degree (BSc, MSc, or PhD), is essential. Familiarity with analytical techniques (such as FTIR, NMR, GPC), laboratory safety protocols, and data analysis software is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure accurate research outcomes, safe lab environments, and productive collaboration, all critical for advancing polymer innovations.

What are some common challenges faced by polymer research associates when developing new polymer materials?

Polymer Research Associates often encounter challenges such as optimizing the synthesis process to achieve desired polymer properties, ensuring reproducibility at both laboratory and pilot scales, and balancing multiple performance requirements like strength, flexibility, and thermal stability. Additionally, they must stay up-to-date with evolving safety and environmental regulations, which can impact material selection and experimental design. Collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams, such as engineers and product developers, is essential to align research outcomes with application needs and commercial goals.

What is the difference between Polymer Research Associate vs Polymer Chemist?

AspectPolymer Research AssociatePolymer Chemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fieldBachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Chemistry or Polymer Science
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, industrial settingsResearch labs, industrial or academic research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, research institutions, chemical companiesChemical companies, research labs, academia
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Polymer Research Associates typically hold bachelor's or master's degrees and work in laboratories focused on developing and testing new polymer materials. Polymer Chemists often have advanced degrees and engage in more complex research, including synthesis and characterization. Both roles are vital in the polymer industry, but the Polymer Chemist generally involves more advanced research responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Polymer Research Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Polymer Research Associate job openings:

What states have the most Polymer Research Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Polymer Research Associate jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Research Associate jobs?

For Polymer Research Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Polymer Research Associate job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,685 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Post-Doctoral Research Associate, (Non Tenure Track, F1019A)

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Old Dominion University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Old Dominion Universityexternal

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Old Dominion University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Post-Doctoral Research Associate, (Non Tenure Track, F1019A)
Department
BIOELECTRONICS
Position Number
F1019A
Job Description
The Center for Bioelectronics at Old Dominion University is seeking an outstanding candidate for a post-doctoral research associate position with a focus on biosensor & bioelectronics development and organic materials integration. This position is a non-permanent appointment, renewable each year up to a max of two years.
The candidate will make key contributions to the area of molecular biology and mentoring students. The individual will be responsible for designing, documenting, and implementing molecular biology techniques pertaining to tissue engineering, "smart" biomaterials, cell-based assays, western blotting, qPCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry. In addition, the qualified individual will play a key role in evaluating aging and compatibility of novel materials for implantable and wearable applications in broad collaboration with other researchers in the lab. Finally, the candidate is expected to serve as a mentor for technicians and students. Applicants with hands-on-experience with 3D cell and tumor mouse models, primary cell isolation and characterization are especially encouraged to apply.
Position Type
FullTime
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Minimum required education and/or special licenses, registrations, trainings, or certifications
A Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials/Polymer Science, Chemistry, Materials Engineering, or a related field is required.
Minimum required level and type of experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities
  1. Deep technical skills and knowledge of molecular biology and biochemisry.
  2. Outstanding written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by a strong academic publication record and presentations at national conferences in a specific technical area.
  3. Ability to work on multiple projects with established deliverables, milestones, timelines and requirements.
  4. Ability to work and communicate effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team of biologist, engineers, chemists, materials scientists, etc.
  5. A solid background in principles of molecular biology and biochemistry processes.
  6. Experience with 2D and 3D cell culture techniques.
  7. Understand the basic processing, properties and mechanics of nanomaterials and soft materials.
  8. Experience with technical writing in the form of manuscripts, reports, standard operating procedures, and other documentation related to research, process development and associated specifications.
  9. Experience in working with Biosafety Level-2 (BSL-2), proficiency in standard cell- and molecular-biological techniques, and real-time imaging of cell and tissue samples.

Preferred Qualifications
Previous postdoctoral research experience preferred.
Conditions of Employment
N/A
Location
Norfolk, VA
Job Open Date
09/11/2026
Application Review Date
09/30/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Application Instructions
Applicants must apply online at https://jobs.odu.edu/postings/27204a complete application will include;
  1. A letter of interest expressing the candidate's interest in the position and how their qualifications meet the posted requirements.
  2. A curriculum vitae.
  3. A diversity/inclusion statement.
  4. Contact information for three professional references (who will be contacted via the application system upon submitting your application to submit a recommendation letter).

Applications will be reviewed starting on September 30, 2026and continue until the position is filled.
Telework Friendly
No
Reasonable Accommodation Request
If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation, please contact the Division of Talent Management and Culture at (757)683-3141.
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or © consistent with contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
About the College
https://odu.edu/cbe
About the Department
https://odu.edu/cbe

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