Sr. Research Scientist, Analytical Chemistry

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated hands-on experienced Senior Research Scientist to join our innovative research and development team. You will play a crucial role in advancing our material science capabilities. Your expertise in material science of polymers and other complex matrices (emulsions, asphalt, fuels) will contribute to solving complex characterization challenges across The Heritage family of companies and products.

Responsibilities

1. Advanced Analytical Techniques:

• Utilize your expertise in advanced material science and using the following techniques: FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance), Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), and thermal analysis to analyze and interpret data (Hands-on).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address unmet needs and drive innovation.

1. Knowledge:
   • The knowledge that was acquired through your advanced materials characterization working with polymers, other complex matrices, and deformulation will allow for innovative solutions to unique challenges.
   • Train and develop scientists and engineers.
   • Aim high to identify unmet technical and scientific needs that create new opportunities for Heritage Research Group (HRG).
   • Knowledgeable in scientific specialties and practices within the Departments and The Heritage Family companies and products.

1. Leadership:

• Provide technical, scientific and user insights to drive best practices throughout HRG.
• Scientific and technical drive for innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with all HRG team members on research projects related to trouble shooting and problem solving.
• Work well in a team setting to design and execute experiments to improve product quality and performance (Hands-on).
• Regularly report progress through team meetings and written communication.
• Deliver expertise knowledge to the senior management team in research. Mentor and lead junior staff.
• Contribute to HRG vision and strategy.

Method Development and Validation:

• Develop and validate analytical methods for raw material identification, product quality assessment, and stability testing (Hands-on).
• Maintain an organized and safe work environment.

Intellectual Property:

• Key contributor to the development and maintenance of intellectual property assets.

Collaborate and partner with Heritage stakeholders on solutions to challenges:

• Contribute scientific and technical expertise to multiple project teams focused on various technical disciplines.
• Consults with other HRG scientists in the planning and conducting of a study, in the analysis of data, and the interpretation of findings, organizes and manages all statistical aspects of successful research projects.
• Continually challenge, develop capability, and best practice and drive new ways of technical thinking across the wider HRG and THG community.
• Act as an independent reviewer for the reports generated in the Analytical Research Group.

Qualifications

1. 10+ years with industrial experience and PhD in Chemistry or 15+ years with industrial experience and a MS degree.
2. Comprehensive scientific knowledge, experience in advanced material science characterization and analytical chemistry.
3. Demonstrated hands-on expertise in GPC, FTIR, NMR, and thermal analysis.
4. Strong material science and problem-solving skills.
5. Experience with method validation, transfer, and stability testing.
6. Understanding and implementation of safe laboratory practices.
7. Creative problem-solving skills to develop solutions to new and ongoing business opportunities.
8. Experience handling hazardous waste and knowledge of hazardous waste classifications is preferred.
9. Direct hands-on experience with a range of material characterization techniques is a plus: CHNOS Analyzers, Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Macro-TGA, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Flash Chromatography, Saturates-Asphaltenes-Resins-Aromatics (SARA) Analysis, Optical Microscopy (including hot stage microscopy), Acid Number Determination, Karl Fischer.
10. Demonstrated application of scientific principles, theory, and experimental design.
11. Experience with Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook.
12. Serves as a peer coach and provides constructive advice on projects within the team while accepting peer advice.
13. Strong organizational and communication skills (oral and written).
14. Ability to use independent judgement and to abstract form specific problems to generate solutions.

If you are passionate about analytical chemistry, thrive in a research-driven setting, and want to make a significant impact, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and be part of shaping the future of our industry!

***This position is based on-site in Indianapolis, IN. Qualified candidates must currently be located in the Indianapolis, IN area or be willing to relocate.***

About The Heritage Group

The Heritage Group (THG) is a privately held portfolio of companies focused on creating long-term value by building world-class businesses. Under four generations of family ownership, we employ thousands of people around the world, with operations across North America, Europe, and China, in the core industries of Environmental and Remediation, Specialty Chemicals and Fuel Products, and Construction and Materials. Driven by innovation and research, our in-house R&D team, Heritage Research Group, specializes in helping our diverse set of companies evolve and adapt to a changing marketplace by providing cutting-edge solutions and exploring new opportunities in its state-of-the-art facility. While acquisitions, partnerships, internal expansion, and startups may be our cornerstones, we're a family company at heart-aiming to build long-term relationships with our customers, vendors, and partners so that we can turn big challenges into even bigger opportunities to make a difference in the world.

The Heritage Group welcomes the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of all to work together to accomplish our goals