R&D Scientist

Who are you?

There is a red line in your life, or better said “a green line”. You realize that this world is up for much more sustainability, and you wonder how you can contribute to that in an exceptional way. To move things where they before seemed stuck. To co-create new plastic grades with exclusive features together with believers around you. What is suggested or dreamed in journals and on social media about our future, you just want to turn into reality. The reality of the New Plastics Economy. With a team of experts beside you.

If that is you, this page might become a memorable one in your life. And in ours.

As an R&D Scientist, you will develop and optimise specialty biopolymers for use in various applications & industries. You will be responsible for researching, analyzing and testing the properties of biomaterials, be the technical contact for customers, be in close contact with internal stakeholders and research institutes.
In short, you fulfil a key role in the R&D team of a growing and unique player in the field of biopolymers. 

Key responsibilities will consist of

• Conducting research to develop and optimise biomaterials for various applications 
• Performing literature studies, designing and executing work plans to synthesize polymers on a laboratory scale as a member of the R&D team 
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams including engineers, chemists, and operators to up-scale laboratory developments to multi-kg scale and to develop compounds and applications according to the customer’s requirements 
• Analyzing and evaluating chemical and material properties of biomaterials 
• Documenting and reporting research findings and providing recommendations for biomaterial improvements 
• Remaining ahead of the curve regarding industry trends and developments in biomaterials science 
• Contributing to shaping, filing and executing of breakthrough R&D projects with business and governmental partners 
• Maintaining a safe and organised laboratory environment 

Required competences & skills 

• PhD or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related field  
• Strong knowledge of organic synthesis and analytical characterisation techniques 
• You are energized by exploring new chemical pathways and rapidly come up with innovative ideas 
• Experience with biopolymer materials is highly recommended 
• Experience with material characterisation techniques, such as rheology, DMA, DSC, TGA is a plus 
• Excellent and pro-active communication skills in English & Dutch 
• Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment 
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously 
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records 
• 2-3 years working experience in an industrial environment is a plus 
• Strong citizenship and team-playing talents in the growing “B4PLASTICS Green Team”

Who are we?

We are B4plastics (www.b4plastics.com), one of the fastest growing bioplastics companies in the world, and we want to guide the plastics industry to the New Plastics Economy: designing new eco-plastics from scratch, prototyping them for partners and own products, and upscaling them as the market demands. Our novel Technology Platforms such as FortePlastics and TriggerPlastics are our differentiators in this adventure.

What do we offer?

A professional and above-average innovative environment with leading global partners targeting world-new products, bringing everyday’s sweat and joy, while securing your competitive salary package and your development for long term employment. You will be working directly from the brand-new labs and offices in Dilsen-Stokkem (B).

Your job will directly impact the plastics industry and transition it to an unprecedented high level of ecology.