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Polymer Research Engineer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

... polymer, indicator, and reagent systems, while partnering closely with microbiology, engineering ... and latest research findings. * Contribute to the development of tools for analyzing large ...

... polymer, indicator, and reagent systems, while partnering closely with microbiology, engineering ... and latest research findings. * Contribute to the development of tools for analyzing large ...

... polymer, indicator, and reagent systems, while partnering closely with microbiology, engineering ... and latest research findings. * Contribute to the development of tools for analyzing large ...

Polymer Research Engineer information

What does a polymer research engineer do?

A Polymer Research Engineer specializes in the study, development, and testing of new and existing polymer materials. They work to improve the properties of plastics, rubbers, and other polymers for various applications, such as packaging, automotive parts, or medical devices. Their responsibilities often include conducting experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with other scientists and engineers to innovate or enhance polymer products. Additionally, they may be involved in scaling up laboratory findings to industrial production processes.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Research Engineer, you need a solid background in polymer science, materials engineering, and analytical chemistry, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, polymer characterization techniques (such as DSC, FTIR, and GPC), and experience with software for data analysis are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you effectively design experiments and present findings. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative polymer materials and driving advancements in materials science.

What are the most common challenges a polymer research engineer faces when developing new polymer materials?

Polymer Research Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing material performance with cost-effectiveness, ensuring scalability from laboratory to industrial production, and meeting strict regulatory and safety standards. Additionally, they must stay updated with advances in polymer chemistry and processing technologies while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like manufacturing, quality assurance, and product development. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication to drive innovation and achieve project goals.

What is the difference between Polymer Research Engineer vs Polymer Development Scientist?

AspectPolymer Research EngineerPolymer Development Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D departments, industrial settingsLaboratories, R&D departments, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, chemical companies, research institutionsManufacturers, chemical companies, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Polymer Research Engineer and a Polymer Development Scientist lies in their focus. Research engineers typically concentrate on developing new polymer materials and innovative processes, while development scientists focus on refining existing materials and scaling up production. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often overlapping in industry usage and job functions.

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Research Engineer jobs in Missouri?

For Polymer Research Engineer jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Polymer Research Engineer job openings in Missouri as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

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Job description

Hiring Department
Chemistry
Job Description
The Department of Chemistry at the Missouri University of Science and Technology invites applications for the position of James O. Stoffer Endowed Professor or Associate Professor of Polymer Chemistry, Kummer Inspiration Fund. The position is open to all areas of polymer chemistry.
The Professorship is expected to foster interdisciplinary, collaborative research, and education, and be committed to mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. The successful applicant is expected to have a strong record of sustained extramural funding and be internationally recognized in their field as well as demonstrate evidence of effective teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The endowment offers annual research support funding in addition to salary and start-up funding commensurate with qualifications and potential. The chemistry department at Missouri S& T is well-equipped with all the basic instrumentation facilities ( https://chem.mst.edu/research/depart-instr/ ) required for experimental research, and is recognized as one of the top research departments in the college, supported by a strong graduate program. The university has state-of-the-art materials characterization facilities ( https://amcc.mst.edu/ ) and a high-performance computing research facility ( https://hpc.mst.edu/ ). Missouri S&T has strong emphasis on inter-disciplinary research amalgamated through the research centers such as the Center for Biomedical Research ( https://cbr.mst.edu/ ) and the Center for Research in Energy and Environment ( https://cree.mst.edu/ ). These research centers also house (bio)analytical research equipment which can be accessed through an open user system.
Qualifications
PhD in Chemistry with polymer research experience preferably at the level of associate professor or full professor
In addition to a strong track record of scholarly accomplishments, candidates are expected to have a strong commitment to (a) teaching both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, (b) service in the applicant's professional community, and (c) the experience with the development of new polymer courses.
Application Materials
Interested applicants should electronically submit an application, a detailed curriculum vita, a cover letter, and names and e-mail addresses for three references. All materials should be submitted to the Missouri University of Science and Technology's Human Resource Office at http://hr.mst.edu/careers/academic/ . All submitted application materials must have the position reference number to be processed. Application Materials Interested candidates should electronically submit their application consisting of 1.) a cover letter, 2.) Current CV, 3.) a list of at least 3 references with full contact information. Acceptable electronic formats that can be used for email attachments include PDF and Word; hard copy application materials will not be accepted.
Application Deadline
Application Deadline for priority consideration is September 15, 2026, and the review of applications will continue until the position is filled.
Sponsorship Information
Employment visa sponsorship may be available for candidates currently in the United States in H-1B status or other work-authorized status.
Community Information
University Information
Missouri S&T is one of the nation's leading research universities with over 100-degree programs in 39 disciplines. It was founded in 1870 as one of the first technological institutions west of the Mississippi River. Located about 100 miles west of St. Louis in the vibrant community of Rolla, Missouri S&T is an accessible, safe, and friendly campus surrounded by Ozarks' scenery. Missouri S&T offers undergraduate degrees in engineering, the sciences, liberal arts, humanities, and business, with M.S. and Ph.D. programs available in many of the science and engineering programs. With over 7,000 students and 300 faculty, Missouri S&T is big enough to accommodate a broad population, yet small enough for individuals to build high visibility and impactful careers.
KUMMER COLLEGE
Established in 2022, The Kummer College serves as a pathbreaking model for social impact, technology transfer, and interdisciplinary collaboration within a future-oriented STEM-focused university. Supported by the Kummer Institute Foundation at Missouri S&T, this unique college integrates key academic, co-curricular, and administrative activities related to technology commercialization, business innovation and entrepreneurship, systems thinking, and economic development. Within The Kummer College lives several departments: Department of Business and Information Technology (BIT), Department of Economics, Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering (EMSE) and Kummer Student Programs.
COLLEGE of ENGINEERING & COMPUTING (CEC)
Missouri S&T's College of Engineering and Computing is the largest of three colleges at S&T, accounting for approximately 80% of the total enrollment (about 4,500 undergraduates and 800 graduate students). The college includes more than 170 ranked faculty members who serve in 16 undergraduate programs, all with master's and doctoral equivalents organized into nine academic departments. The college recently added a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering and a Ph.D. in bioengineering, both starting in fall 2024. Missouri S&T, supported by the College of Engineering and Computing, is nationally recognized for its career outcomes and ROI.
COLLEGE of ARTS, SCIENCES, & EDUCATION (CASE)
The College of Arts, Sciences, and Education is a catalyst of innovation, creativity, and discovery, where students and faculty work side-by-side to create and share knowledge and understanding. From arts and humanities to the natural and social sciences, the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education has a program for everyone. The College of Arts, Sciences, and Education (CASE) is made up of eleven units including Air Force ROTC, Army ROTC, Arts, Languages and Philosophy, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, English and Technical Communication, History and Political Science, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics, Psychological Science, and Education. The college is home to over 90 tenured/tenure-track and 44 non-tenure-track faculty members. CASE offers more than 85 different academic options including certificates, minors, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
About Rolla
Rolla, Missouri offers several great advantages that help individuals enjoy a high quality of life. Rolla is an ideal place for families, with its low cost of living, excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a range of recreational activities suitable for all ages. The Ozark Scenic Riverways and beautiful landscapes offers abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of every lifestyle. With its vibrant community, Rolla hosts multiple events, concerts, art exhibitions, and theater performances throughout the year. The university's Leach Theatre showcases nationally renowned performers for campus and community alike. Overall, living in Rolla offers a high quality of life with a supportive community, affordable living, beautiful natural surroundings, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/departments-staff/human-resources/benefits-retirement
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer .
To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 573-341-7734.

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About University of Missouri

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The University of Missouri, based in Columbia, MO, US; is a public, land-grant research institution with an established reputation in academic excellence, industry relevance, and societal impact. Founded in 1839, it was the first public university located west of the Mississippi River. The institution spans various industries in the education sector with its multitude of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across various disciplines. The University's mission is centered on improving lives, enhancing communities, advancing health, and fostering excellence through its teaching, research, and engagement activities. U-M has some significant achievements under its belt including pioneering the world's first school of journalism and being one of the only six public universities in the US that accommodates medicine, veterinary medicine, and law in one campus.

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