Job Opening ID: 35293

Research Scientist

Fixed-term contract

China - Shanghai, CN

Nov 2, 2026

Syensqo is all about chemistry. We’re not just referring to chemical reactions here, but also to the magic that occurs when the brightest minds get to work together. This is where our true strength lies. In you. In your future colleagues and in all your differences. And of course, in your ideas to improve lives while preserving our planet’s beauty for the generations to come.

Role and Responsibilities

Job summary:

The jobholder will be a part of the Research & Innovation (R&I) organization located in Shanghai Technology Park, belonging to the Specialty Polymers GBU, and reporting to the Technology Manager of China Engineered Materials (EM). The jobholder will work closely with the GBU business team (sales and marketing managers) and CTD (Customer Technology Development) to provide innovative polymer formulation solutions to address the specific performance/application needs from customers in all market clusters (Transportation, Electrical & Industrial, Healthcare, Environment, Consumer & Construction). He/she will collaborate closely with other members of the China EM team, ADL (Application Development Labs) and Corporate RI Labs in Shanghai, as well as global GBU RI teams (Alpharetta, Bollate). He / She will collaborate closely with the Digital Champion globally to leverage AI technology on novel material solution innovation.

Main Responsibilities:

Maintaina safe work environment for self and others
Conduct research and development activities focused on high-performance polymers, including formulation, processing, and testing.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and develop new products that meet specific performance criteria.
Execute projects/programs aligned with business strategy and following the innovation process
Responsible for identifying IP potential and file patent application if appropriate
Assisting in the review and monitoring of patent/scientific literature relevant to business management.
Fully engaged with GBU business and CTD teams with on-time responses to customer needs
Participate GBU business activities, including visits to customers, technical presentations during internal and external seminars/discussions.
Providing technical support and technology transfer to plant operations.
Be open/interested in working with data scientists, adept at using the AI tools which are created for new product development.

Experience and Skills

Ph.D in Polymer science, Material science & Engineering , or a related discipline. Or, Master's degree with at least 5+ years hands-on formulation experience.
Solid background in Polymer science and polymer chemistry, deep understanding of structure-property relationships and polymer additive interactions. Strong experience in high performance polymer compounds development is considered an advantage.
Independent problem solving, ability to troubleshoot formulation issues, run failure analysis and manage projects independently.
Critical thinking & DoE, strong analytical mindset using Design of Experiments rather than simple trial-and-error.
Well organized working style, self-motivated in technical learnings and strong desire to exceed
Fluent English written and spoken for professional communication and supplier/client technical discussions.
Cross-functional communicator, proactive worker who can translate customer needs into formulation specs and collaborate effectively with process engineers.
Teamwork spirit and willing to learn & re-relearn.

What We Offer

Learning opportunities from the experienced research scientists and manager.
Career development opportunities in one international company.
Competitive salary and benefits package
16, or more, weeks of maternity/paternity and co-parenting leave, according to local regulations
Training platform for all employees
Free well-being sessions (physical and psychological)

About us

Syensqo is a science company developing groundbreaking solutions that enhance the way we live, work, travel and play. Inspired by the scientific councils which Ernest Solvay initiated in 1911, we bring great minds together to push the limits of science and innovation for the benefit of our customers, with a diverse, global team of more than 13,000 associates. Our solutions contribute to safer, cleaner, and more sustainable products found in homes, food and consumer goods, planes, cars, batteries, smart devices and health care applications. Our innovation power enables us to deliver on the ambition of a circular economy and explore breakthrough technologies that advance humanity.
At Syensqo, we seek to promote unity and not uniformity. We value the diversity that individuals bring and we invite you to consider a future with us, regardless of background, age, gender, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, ability or identity. We encourage individuals who may require any assistance or accommodations to let us know to ensure a seamless application experience. We are here to support you throughout the application journey and want to ensure all candidates are treated equally. If you are unsure whether you meet all the criteria or qualifications listed in the job description, we still encourage you to apply.