R&D Scientist II - Chemist (Materials/Polymers)
Job Description
R&D Scientist II (Materials/Polymer Focus) - 626452
Location: Franklin Lakes, NJ (Onsite – 5 days/week)
Duration: 12-month contract (W2 only)
Pay Rate: Up to ~$35-37/hr.
Openings: 2
Overview
The R&D Scientist II supports the development and innovation of blood collection devices (e.g., plastic tubing, vials, needles) within a Specimen Management R&D organization. This role focuses on materials research and development, particularly polymer-based solutions, and involves both material characterization (50%) and innovation/testing activities (50%).
This is a hands-on, lab-based role requiring curiosity, independent research ability, and cross-functional collaboration.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and execute experiments to support product development, verification, and innovation initiatives
- Conduct material characterization and testing (e.g., polymers, formulations, surface modifications)
- Develop and execute test protocols; analyze and document results
- Perform root cause analysis for product and manufacturing issues
- Prepare samples and prototypes for internal and external evaluation
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, and Medical teams
- Support design verification, requirements management, and transfer to manufacturing
- Maintain lab equipment and ensure compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
- Contribute to intellectual property (patents, invention disclosures)
- Mentor junior team members as needed
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in one of the following or related fields: Materials Science / Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering / Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Polymer Science, and Biochemistry / Cell & Molecular Biology
- Minimum 2 years of laboratory experience
- Strong background in materials chemistry (polymers required)
- Experience with material formulation or modification preferred
- Ability to independently conduct research (literature review, data synthesis, recommendations)
- Basic knowledge of statistical tools (Excel, Minitab, etc.)
- Proficiency in MS Office
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
Preferred Qualifications
- MS or PhD in a related field (not required)
- Experience in medical devices (preferred but not required)
- Exposure to biological sciences (e.g., tissue engineering, DNA engineering) is a plus
- Familiarity with material analysis techniques such as FTIR, TGA, DSC
- Experience handling clinical specimens (human blood)
Additional Details
- Must be comfortable working with human blood samples (training and PPE provided)
- Work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, with cross-functional collaboration
- Travel is minimal (up to once per year)
- No direct supervision responsibilities
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Strong foundation in polymer/material chemistry (non-metal/non-ceramic focus)
- Curious, self-driven, and eager to learn
- Able to work independently while collaborating with subject matter experts
- Comfortable in a hands-on lab environment
Hiring Timeline
- First shortlist due: Wednesday (3/18)
- Fast-moving process – early submissions strongly encouraged