Rheology and polymer scientist

This is the role

The position aims to reinforce the material characterization expertise of the European Technical Centre of Eastman Chemical in Ghent region in Belgium and to support the group leader and the EMEA technology Director to define a strategy around material testing, particularly in the field of rheology. The responsibility of the scientist will consist in developing polymer and formulation testing methods by various techniques such as tensile tests, thermal analyses and, most preferably rheology. The scientist will interact with various innovation and sustainable programs of Eastman Chemical in EMEA for all Eastman Chemical Businesses. Type of applications will vary between evaluation of Eastman ingredients in formulations such as coatings, cosmetics, washing powder and detergents to polymer characterization used in various markets such as automotive, packaging, medical application.  The scientist will work with cross-functional team including expert scientist in their field (coating, cosmetics, plastic, automotive) as well as customer technical support team and process team.

This position is based in our European Technology Center in Ghent - Zwijnaarde en requires on-site presence
 

Typical tasks and responsibilities are :

•    Complying and promoting the Eastman Safety Culture and follow the safety rules applicable to our Analytical and .Material Characterization Laboratories. Maintaining a clean work area in line with Eastman’s housekeeping standards. 
•    Hand-on experience on various techniques and instrumentation which is not limited to but includes: Rheometers (Rotational, capillary and preferably DMA), Viscometers, Thermogravimetric analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry, ….
•    Be able to use solid knowledge of advanced techniques in the field of rheology, thermal analysis, morphology and eventually spectroscopy. Ability to do trouble-shooting and to discuss with a variety of experts in those fields both at our equipment suppliers, University partners as well as our experts in our Eastman headquarters in Kingsport, Tennessee, US.
•    Develop test methods to respond to new innovation projects and to get fundamental understanding of process issue, thermal stability issue and or in-use application properties. Rheology expertise is desired or freshly graduated applicant in material engineering showing a high motivation in acquiring further rheology and/or material testing and to apply them to end-application is highly encouraged to candidate. 
•    Organize and prioritize projects for the rheology and material testing laboratory based on timelines and objectives defined with internal requestors.
•    Be able to coach and train technician on methods developed. Possibility to grow as people manager
•    Assure suitability, accuracy, and reliability of test results and methods.
•    Support maintenance and calibration of instruments and devices; stay updated on new equipment development and act as direct contact for thermal and rheological equipment.
•    Ensure research results and method development is documented in technical reports, test methods, and/or laboratory notebooks, as appropriate.
 

Qualifications

•    A master’s degree in polymer chemistry, plastic engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, preferably a phD in rheology or equivalent by experience
•    In-depth knowledge of polymer materials and/or formulation as well as of advanced material characterizing techniques in the field of rheology (rotational rheometers, DMA), thermal analysis (DSC, TGA), morphology and preferably with good understanding of chemistry or spectroscopy techniques (FTIR, NMR). 
•    Self-learner with proactive mindset with high drive to test new ideas in the lab. 
•    High energy for problem-solving and structure/properties understanding projects
•    Must be self-motivated, looking for ways to improve laboratory work processes, testing accuracy and safety. 
•    Knowledge on Microsoft Office is preferred
•    Fluent in English both written and spoken is essential in this international work environment
•    Must be able to communicate experimental results clearly to peers & supervision through email, verbal communication and/or concise report to internal customers (Scientist, Technical Support rep.).
•    Job is in an R&D environment. Ideal candidate is energized by non-routine work and innovation
•    Must be able to work with people having different personalities, cultures and different job functions. 

Why join Eastman?

It’s about growth and your long-term success. At Eastman, your career path can take many routes—each offering growth opportunities, competitive salary and benefits, and a globally growing work environment. Eastman fosters a culture of diversity steeped in teamwork and employee involvement, a place where dedicated individuals turn great ideas into materials that make a difference in everyday life. We support and encourage one another and believe that leveraging diversity in our thoughts and experiences allows us to excel in business.