Polymer Chemist-R&D

Company Description

PolyAnalytik Inc. (PAI) was incorporated in May 2008, with our headquarters at Western University Research Park in London, Ontario, Canada. Our multidisciplinary team of materials science & engineering experts in polymer chemistry, biomedical engineering, and biotechnology has extensive experience providing accurate, reproducible, and validated analytical services across various sectors. Our R&D department develops advanced polymer formulations for various applications, including wastewater and Oil and Gas. We are a growing, innovation-driven company that values scientific excellence, collaboration, and real-world impact

Job Summary: A Polymer Chemist-R&D to join our research and development team and contribute to the development of next-generation polymer products. This role focuses on the organic chemistry aspects of polymer synthesis, with particular emphasis on understanding and improving polymer performance under extreme conditions.

You will work closely with the Lead Scientist to advance our IP portfolio, solve complex formulation challenges, and support the commercialization of our proprietary technologies

This is a hands-on laboratory role ideal for someone who loves bench chemistry, wants to make a tangible impact, and is excited about working at the intersection of polymer science and industrial application.

Key Responsibilities:

• Synthesize acrylamide-based polymers and related copolymers using various polymerization techniques (UV-initiated, thermal, redox)
• Design and execute experiments to develop new polymer formulations for applications such as but not limited to EOR, hydraulic fracturing, and wastewater treatment
• Optimize monomer ratios, initiator systems, and reaction conditions to achieve target polymer properties
• Scale up synthesis from laboratory to pilot scale
• Investigate thermal degradation mechanisms of polyacrylamides/polyarylates under high-temperature, high-salinity reservoir conditions
• Develop strategies to improve polymer stability in harsh environments (carbonate and sandstone reservoirs)
• Conduct accelerated aging studies and long-term stability testing
• Analyze degradation products and propose mechanistic explanations
• Perform polymer characterization using techniques such as:

– Viscometry (non-Newtonian fluids, rheology)

– Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC/SEC)

– FTIR, NMR spectroscopy

– Thermal aging studies (glovebox)

• Interpret analytical data to guide formulation improvements
• Develop and validate analytical methods as needed

Other responsibilities:

– Method Development: developing and optimizing analytical methods for quantitation, identification, and characterization of macromolecules – synthetic polymers and biopolymers.

– Equipment Maintenance: Routine maintenance and troubleshooting of the equipment to keep it in good working condition.

– Data Analysis: Analyzing analytical and scientific data generated from various experiments involving multiple software tools for interpretation.

– Quality Control: Ensuring analytical equipment and methods meet the required quality standards by performing validation experiments, utilizing written SOPs, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

– Collaboration: Collaborating with internal and external researchers to develop and optimize analytical methods

– Leadership: Leading a team of research assistants and interns/Co-ops, providing guidance, training, and supervision as needed.

– Innovation: Identifying and implementing new technologies or approaches to improve polymer performance, reducing costs or expanding applications. This will include the scientific contribution to patent (IP) applications, technical reports, and scientific publications

Qualifications & Requirements:

–     PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or related field

–     OR MSc with 5+ years of relevant industrial experience in polymer chemistry

Skills

–      Excellent laboratory skills and attention to detail

–      Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects

–      Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities

–      Good written and verbal communication skills

–      Collaborative mindset and willingness to learn

Additional Preferred Qualifications, but not required:

–      Experience with polyacrylamides/polyacrylates or water-soluble polymer synthesis

–      Knowledge of oilfield chemistry and EOR applications

–      Understanding of high-temperature and high-salinity polymer behavior

–      Experience with UV-initiated RAFT and ATRP polymerizations

–      Familiarity with cationic, anionic, and nonionic monomer systems

–      Experience with designed experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis

–      Previous work in a contract research or industrial R&D environment

Work Location:

• In person
• National and International Travels may be required

Benefits:

• Company events
• Dental care
• Extended health care
• On-site parking
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 40-hour per week
• Contract Length: 2 Years
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

How to Apply: Please send a most current resume and cover letter to HRCareers@polyanalytik.com (indicating “Polymer Chemist – R&D PA100020” in the Subject line