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Polymer Science Phd Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Leveraging your PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science and Coatings, or Material Science and your strong industry experience in scaling up polymers from the lab to manufacturing coupled with an excellent ...

Polymer Science Phd information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Polymer Science PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Polymer Science PhD, you need an advanced understanding of polymer chemistry, materials characterization, and experimental design, typically supported by a doctoral degree in polymer science or a related field. Familiarity with analytical instruments like FTIR, NMR, DSC, and GPC, as well as experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for driving innovation, conducting rigorous research, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams in academic or industrial settings.

What are some common interdisciplinary collaborations for Polymer Science PhD professionals in industry or academia?

Polymer Science PhD professionals often collaborate with experts in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, and biomedical engineering. These interdisciplinary teams work together to develop new materials for applications such as medical devices, electronics, or sustainable packaging. Such collaboration not only broadens the impact of research but also provides valuable experience in cross-functional teamwork, which is highly valued in both industrial and academic settings.

What is a Polymer Science PhD?

A Polymer Science PhD is an advanced doctoral degree focused on the study of polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating structural units. This interdisciplinary field combines aspects of chemistry, physics, materials science, and engineering to understand and innovate in the development, characterization, and application of polymeric materials. Graduates are trained to conduct independent research, develop new materials, and solve complex problems related to plastics, rubbers, fibers, and other polymer-based products. Careers for Polymer Science PhDs span academia, industry, and government labs, often involving research and development of new materials for various applications.

What is the difference between Polymer Science Phd vs Materials Scientist?

AspectPolymer Science PhdMaterials Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Polymer Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or related field, PhD preferred for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsIndustrial labs, manufacturing, research and development
Industry UsageSpecialized in polymers, plastics, elastomersBroader focus including metals, ceramics, polymers

Polymer Science Phds typically focus on research and development within polymers and plastics, often in academic or specialized R&D settings. Materials Scientists have a broader scope, working with various materials in industrial environments. Both roles require strong technical knowledge, but Polymer Science Phds are more specialized in polymers, while Materials Scientists work across multiple material types.

What are popular job titles related to Polymer Science Phd jobs in Michigan? For Polymer Science Phd jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Polymer Science Phd jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Polymer Science Phd job openings:
Infographic showing various Polymer Science Phd job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution.
Senior Polymer Specialist

Senior Polymer Specialist

BASF

Southfield, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


BASF rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 88 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Now hiring! Senior Polymer Specialist
Southfield, MI
Come create chemistry with us!
The automotive coatings division is one of BASF's most dynamic and fast-growing businesses in the region. We have great people filled with a passion to deliver innovative, high quality coatings solutions to our customers - carmakers and aftermarket alike. Our team is dynamic, customer focused and growth oriented.
We are seeking a professional like you to join our team to support the introduction of new resins and polymers for automotive coatings into production, as well as provide technical expertise to solve production issues with established polymers and champion the localization of global technologies by close collaboration with global resins groups. In this role, you will also proactively identify business opportunities, as well as plan and execute laboratory research for the development of polymers for Basecoat and Ecoat in the area of automotive coatings.
You Create Chemistry by:
  • Leveraging your PhD in Chemistry, Polymer Science and Coatings, or Material Science and your strong industry experience in scaling up polymers from the lab to manufacturing coupled with an excellent understanding of polymer science concepts, you will synthesize and develop resins to support development projects, as well as perform advanced analysis of polymers and run proof of concept experiments.
  • Executing and supporting global projects in the field of polymers for Basecoat and Ecoat, as well as preparing and monitoring Intellectual Property, you will collaborate closely with Global and Local Product Development and Color functions, exBU's and functions, and translate creative technical approaches into generation of commercial resins.
  • Demonstrating your exceptional verbal and written communication skills, you will represent the North America Resin group on a Global Platform and actively participate in internal and external meetings, as well as dissipate updates and findings through Presentations.
  • Contribute as a raw material expert and qualify alternate sources based on comprehensive analysis and resin synthesis.
  • Utilize your hands on skills in the preparation of polymers using a variety of techniques such as Free radical polymerization and or Controlled Free Radical Polymerization, Condensation Polymerization, Emulsion Polymerization, along with your experience of collaborating with global Technology and Operations groups to lead the localization of global resin technologies.
  • Developing robust knowledge of Trouble shooting and work procedures will serve you well, as you Trouble-shoot manufacturing issues, and replicate manufacturing scenarios by performing lab synthesis.
  • Your high-level knowledge of chemistry competency relating to the elucidation of structure-property relationships and analytical instrumentation will be a valued asset, as you participate in the introduction of new resins into production.

If you have...
  • PhD in chemistry, polymer science and Coatings or material science.
  • 2+ years of experience industrial automotive OEM coatings (preferred).
  • Strong understanding of polymer science concepts.
  • Hands on skills in the preparation of polymers for primer, basecoat and/or Ecoat using a variety of techniques including but not limited to free radical polymerization and or controlled free radical polymerization, condensation polymerization, emulsion polymerization.
  • Application of polymers in the coatings area.
  • High level of chemistry competency relating to the elucidation of structure-property relationships.
  • Preparation & monitoring of intellectual property.
  • Experience of working across cultures and being part of a global team.
  • Exceptional communication skills - verbal and written.
  • Understanding of resin regulatory registrations.
  • Analytical instrumentation.
  • Design of Experiments (DOE).
  • Project development process (converting intellectual property into projects) and subsequent project management skills.
  • Trouble shooting.
  • Following work procedures.
  • SAP
  • Training of other associates and serving as a mentor.

Create your own chemistry with you@BASF
At BASF, you will have the chance to do meaningful work towards building a more sustainable future. In addition to competitive compensation and benefits, BASF provides you with access to a wide range of elements to help you be your best. It's what we call you@BASF. We are committed to providing benefits, programs, and opportunities that support our employees' overall well-being, personal growth, and a safe, collaborative, and inclusive work environment.
Just some of the many benefits we offer include:
  • Flexible work arrangements whenever possible
  • Highly competitive retirement savings plan with company match and investment options
  • Well-being programs that include comprehensive mental health support for you and your household family members
  • Family forming benefits (fertility, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, maternity/parental leave, and more)
  • Back-up child and elder care with discount programs for families of all ages and stages
  • Mentoring and career development opportunities that allow you to share, learn, and thrive
  • Matching gifts program that allows you to deepen the impact of your contributions to qualified charities.
  • Employee crisis support for when the unexpected happens
  • Access to our BASF wine cellar, employee discounts, and much more!

About us
As one of the largest chemical companies in North America we have been finding solutions for your everyday needs and addressing the most complex economic, environmental, and sustainability challenges for more than 150 years!
At BASF we empower our employees with the tools, guidance and opportunities they need to advance and succeed in work and life. Giving you the support you need to be your best and fulfill your personal ambitions is what helps us create chemistry. After all, our success is linked to yours. Whatever path you envision, BASF is a great place to build a rewarding, successful career.
Belong to Something Bigger. #belongatBASF
Privacy statement
BASF takes security & data privacy very seriously. We will never request financial information of any kind via email, private text message or direct message on any social medial platform or job board. Furthermore, we will never send a candidate a check for equipment or request any type of payment during the job application process. If you have experienced any of the above, please contact myhr@basf.com to report fraud.
Equal employment opportunities
We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, citizenship, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, disability status, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
A unique total offer: you@BASF
At BASF you get more than just compensation. Our total offer includes a wide range of elements you need to be your best in every stage of your life. That's what we call you@BASF. Click here to learn more.
A unique total offer: you@BASF
At BASF you get more than just compensation. Our total offer includes a wide range of elements you need to be your best in every stage of your life. That's what we call you@BASF. Click here to learn more.
At BASF, we believe that people are the key to our long-term success and that talent is in everyone.
We thrive on giving you the support you need to be your best and fulfil personal ambitions...that's how we create chemistry. #belongatBASF
About BASF
Find out what BASF has to offer as an employer and why you should join our team.
Your application
Here you find anything you need to know about your application and the application process.
Contact us
You have questions about your application or on how to apply in Europe? The BASF Talent Acquisition Europe team is glad to assist you.
Please note that we do not return paper applications including folders. Please submit copies only and no original documents.
Please note that we do not return paper applications including folders. Please submit copies only and no original documents.

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About BASF

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

BASF Corporation, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has approximately 16,000 employees in North America and had sales of $25.7 billion in 2022. At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 111,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €87.3 billion in 2022. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Florham Park, NJ, US

Year founded

1865