Materials Scientist - Avery Dennison

Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE: AVY) is a global materials science and digital identification solutions company that provides a wide range of branding and information solutions that optimize labor and supply chain efficiency, reduce waste, advance sustainability, circularity and transparency, and better connect brands and consumers. Our products and solutions include labeling and functional materials, radio frequency identification (RFID) inlays and tags, software applications that connect the physical and digital, and a variety of products and solutions that enhance branded packaging and carry or display information that improves the customer experience. Serving an array of industries worldwide — including home and personal care, apparel, general retail, e-commerce, logistics, food and grocery, pharmaceuticals and automotive — we employ approximately 35,000 employees in more than 50 countries. Our reported sales in 2023 were $8.4 billion. Learn more at www.averydennison.com.

At Avery Dennison, some of the great benefits we provide are:

• Health & Wellness benefits starting on day 1 of employment
• Paid parental leave
• 401K eligibility
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible work arrangements
• Employee Assistance Program eligibility / Health Advocate
• Paid vacation and Paid holidays

We are looking for a Materials Scientist to join our team! 

Advanced Materials Solutions (AMS) provides global expertise in front-end innovation acceleration, ecosystem scouting, opportunity de-risking, core adhesive technologies, coatings and novel film chemistry.

Hands-on Research & Development Scientist with technology and product development responsibilities in the area of polymeric dielectric materials and electrically conductive composites with primary emphasis on polymers in general and acrylic polymers in particular.  This individual  will have demonstrated skill in various polymerization techniques, formulating polymer composites,  processing of polymers, and the relevant test methods.  The position spans diverse polymer-based  research for both development of technology platforms and customer-specific initiatives with a focus on adhesives/materials used in the electronics, communications and energy storage/harvesting industry.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct hands-on polymerizations of adhesives or coatings via various free radical techniques including; thermal, actinic, controlled architecture and associated polymer/adhesive characterizations.  Supervise and coach technician and lab support colleagues.

• Polymerize, formulate and optimize adhesive compositions tailored for specific industrial applications, considering factors such as electrical conductivity, dielectric constant, adhesion strength, thermal stability, and environmental compatibility.

• Design and execute experiments to characterize the properties of developed adhesive formulations, utilizing analytical techniques and electrical test methods.

• Stay updated on the latest advancements, market trends, and competitive products through literature review, guiding research direction accordingly.

• Lead project teams in basic research and customer-driven R&D for conductive and electronic materials.  Develop and implement comprehensive technical project plans. Determine resources, actions and timelines for projects. 

• Act as a patent liaison, working with corporate council regarding right to market, patent applications and office actions.  Assist fellow chemists in patent activities and filings.

• Transfer knowledge to colleagues through presentations, technical reports, and day-to-day interactions.  Train and mentor junior colleagues in the theory and application of both conventional and new polymerization technology and formulating.

• Represent the organization as the prime technical contact on projects, engaging with senior external personnel on significant technical matters, often requiring coordination between organizations.

• Actively participate in process safety management and employee safety programs.  

• Contribute to continuous improvement through inputs into raw material selection and process modifications.

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science or Polymer Science; alternatively, a BS/MS with appropriate years of experience in polymer design and synthesis.

• Minimum 2 years of R&D experience in polymerization

• Exposure to soft polymer materials and  acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives is a plus. 

• Experience in development of electrically conductive polymer systems including incorporating conductive fillers into polymer matrices as well as inherently conductive polymers is highly desired.

• Working knowledge of electrically conductive fillers 

• Working knowledge of high dielectric polymeric materials/composites

• Advanced knowledge of characterization and analytical/applications testing of polymeric material

• Demonstrated expertise in using statistical design of experiments.

• Synthesis and formulation experience in complementary chemistries and technologies such as urethanes, silicones, epoxies, hot melts and radiation curing.

• Must demonstrate strong problem solving skills, including the ability to tackle challenges throughout the development process.

• Proven track record of implementing creative and innovative technologies.

• Excellent verbal & written communication skills.

• Well-developed time management skills with the ability to work on and/or lead multiple projects simultaneously.

• Ability to foster creativity/innovation while ensuring project progress and lab productivity.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or other protected status. EEOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

If you require accommodations to view or apply for a job, alternative methods are available to submit an application. Please contact (440)534-6000 or NA.TA.Operations@averydennison.com to discuss reasonable accommodations.