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Polymer Science Phd Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Eastman

PhD Polymer Scientist

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027** Eastman Chemical Company is ... D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Macromolecular Science, Materials Science ...

Eastman

PhD Polymer Scientist

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027** Eastman Chemical Company is ... D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Macromolecular Science, Materials Science ...

Eastman

PhD Analytical Chemist

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027** Eastman Chemical Company is ... D. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Polymer Science/Chemistry, Materials Science, or related ...

Eastman

PhD Analytical Chemist

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027** Eastman Chemical Company is ... D. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Polymer Science/Chemistry, Materials Science, or related ...

Eastman

Technical Leader - Plastics

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD or Master's degree and 10+ years industry experience strongly preferred. Degree must be in Materials Science or Engineering, Polymer Science and/or Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely ...

Eastman

Technical Leader - Plastics

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD or Master's degree and 10+ years industry experience strongly preferred. Degree must be in Materials Science or Engineering, Polymer Science and/or Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely ...

Eastman

PhD Chemical Engineer

Kingsport, TN

Apply engineering and scientific fundamentals to existing and new areas of interest * Actively ... Fundamental knowledge of polymer and/or small molecule process technology or have a high potential ...

Eastman

PhD Chemical Engineer

Kingsport, TN · On-site

Apply engineering and scientific fundamentals to existing and new areas of interest * Actively ... Fundamental knowledge of polymer and/or small molecule process technology or have a high potential ...

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Polymer Science Phd information

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Polymer Science PhD?

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 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 Tennessee?

For Polymer Science Phd jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Polymer Science Phd jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Polymer Science Phd jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Polymer Science Phd jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Polymer Science Phd job openings:

Polymer Science Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polymer Science Phd job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

PhD Polymer Scientist

Eastman

Kingsport, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Eastman Chemical rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 102 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company's innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 13,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2025 revenue of approximately $8.8 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.
Responsibilities
**Please note - This posting is for recent or upcoming PhD graduates to join our team in 2027. PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027**
Eastman Chemical Company is seeking a recent 2026 or upcoming 2027 PhD graduate Polymer Chemist/Scientist with an experimental focus to join the Technology organization in Kingsport, Tennessee. As a member of a high-performing team, this individual will be responsible for developing innovative and sustainable solutions for new and existing processes and products. The selected candidate will work closely with a team of scientists, engineers and technicians at the lab, pilot and/or commercial scale to meet market demands.
Job Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with partner functions, such as applications R&D, manufacturing, marketing and business partners to understand customer needs and provide commercially viable technical solutions.
  • Work in a fast-paced, results-oriented team environment to reduce application fitness-for-use criteria to fundamental polymer characteristics leading to design, preparation, and assessment of novel polymer compositions & architectures.
  • Develop research plans and design experiments to prepare, characterize and evaluate polymers according to company's timetable and translate into detailed technical work plans for safe and effective execution of process chemistry or new product or application development
  • Elucidate and recommend process conditions and parameters for successful scale-up and manufacturing of new and existing polymer compositions.
  • Anticipate technical difficulties and develop creative solutions
  • Write patents, technical market support literature, technical presentations, and publications, including internal research for publication, and provide support/liaison for external research conducted in line with the organization's research strategy
  • Prepare and present written and oral reports to communicate with production, marketing, sales, and related functions
  • Work in and lead multidisciplinary teams to execute on technical projects, including directing the work of technicians

Qualifications
  • Required Degree: Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Macromolecular Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
  • Safe execution of all laboratory processes with demonstrated ability to effectively identify hazards associated with chemistries being explored and take appropriate actions
  • Demonstrated practical knowledge of polymer synthesis /mechanisms in organic chemistry or polymer engineering, and laboratory experimentation techniques.
  • Effective working knowledge of structure - property relationships and polymer characterization techniques.
  • General working knowledge of applications, processing methods, formulations and additives for engineering plastics, films, coatings and adhesives.
  • Knowledge of physical properties, especially mechanical properties of polymeric materials
  • Demonstrated creativity and desire to solve challenging and complex problems with hands-on approach
  • Passion for understanding the fundamental aspects of complex chemistries and processes.
  • Ability to lead and contribute as a member of multidisciplinary teams
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to distill data and effectively present key messages across the technical enterprise, as well as various groups such as marketing, manufacturing, regulatory, QA/QC, supply chain, customer service, sales and external customers and suppliers.
  • Strong organizational/time management skills and ability to prioritize.
  • Injection molding or extrusion experience preferred but not required.

Benefits
Your total rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. When you join Eastman, you gain access to an exceptional suite of programs designed to protect your health, grow your wealth, and fuel your career.
Compensation & Incentives
• Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success.
Health & Wellness
• Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage-paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax-free dollars for care today or in the future.
• A robust menu of voluntary benefits-including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection, and more-so you can tailor coverage to fit your life.
• Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.
Retirement & Financial Strategies
• 401(k) with a company match-plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long-term savings.
Time Away
• Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life's moments.
Growth & Development
• Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career.
At Eastman, we invest in the whole you-so you can bring your best self to work every day and build a future you're proud of.
Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law.
Eastman is committed to creating a powerfully engaged workplace, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.

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