Lead Polymer R&D Scientist

At DuPont, our purpose is to empower the world with essential innovations to thrive. We work on things that matter. Whether it's providing clean water to more than a billion people on the planet, producing materials that are essential in everyday technology devices from smartphones to electric vehicles, or protecting workers around the world. Discover the many reasons the world's most talented people are choosing to work at DuPont. Why Join Us | DuPont Careers DuPont Healthcare Solutions is seeking a Lead Polymer Research & Development Scientist to drive next-generation polymer innovation for advanced medical device applications. This senior technical role offers the opportunity to lead high-impact, sustainable materials development programs from early research through commercialization within a world-class R&D environment. Role Overview You will lead end-to-end polymer development programs, applying deep polymer science expertise to design, synthesize, functionalize, and scale novel materials-including sustainable alternatives-tailored for healthcare applications. This role combines hands-on scientific leadership, customer-facing technical collaboration, and cross-functional project delivery to bring new materials from concept to market.

Key Responsibilities

• Polymer design & development: Lead ideation, synthesis, functionalization, and characterization of new polymer materials for medical devices. Translate customer and application requirements into clear structure-property hypotheses across polymer families such as polyolefins, PVC, PEEK, polyamides, polyurethanes, and fluoropolymers.
• Processing & formulation: Develop and optimize polymer formulations and processing methods (extrusion, injection molding, coating). Evaluate thermal, mechanical, and rheological performance to ensure manufacturability and healthcare performance standards.
• Scale-up & commercialization: Plan and execute pilot-scale trials and transfer laboratory processes to full manufacturing while meeting quality, regulatory, and supply chain requirements.
• Customer & cross-functional collaboration: Serve as a customer-facing technical expert, partnering with medical device customers and collaborating internally with marketing, product management, regulatory, quality, manufacturing, and supply chain teams.
• Innovation & IP: Drive technical innovation through new chemistries, formulations, and processes. Document results rigorously and secure intellectual property through patents.
• Project leadership: Lead multidisciplinary R&D projects, communicate clear technical recommendations, and mentor or influence technical talent.
• Digital & data-enabled R&D: Apply digital tools, including AI/ML where appropriate, to accelerate development and improve data-driven decision making.

Qualifications

• Education & experience: PhD in Polymer Science, Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field with 5+ years of relevant industry experience; or MS with 10+ years. Healthcare or medical device experience is strongly preferred.
• Healthcare materials knowledge: Understanding of polymers used in medical devices, including biocompatibility, sterilization compatibility, and material stability; familiarity with standards such as ISO 10993 and USP Class VI is a plus.
• Innovation & problem solving: Proven track record of technical innovation and applying rigorous scientific methods. Patents, publications, or commercialized products are highly valued.
• Leadership & communication: Strong collaboration, communication, and project leadership skills with the ability to influence cross-functional and customer-facing teams.
• Drive & adaptability: Self-motivated, capable of managing multiple priorities, and committed to continuous learning and high-quality outcomes.

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