Lead Scientist, Technology Development - Barriers

We Make Life More Rewarding and Dignified Location: Libertyville Department: Research & Development Summary: Hollister's Ostomy Research and Development division is seeking a skilled Lead Scientist with deep expertise in polymers, adhesives, materials characterization and formulation development to grow our formulation development expertise. This position will be a member of the Technology Development team within Ostomy Research and Development, and it will be a visible, cross-functional role requiring solid interpersonal and communication skills as well as a desire to coach and mentor. The Lead Scientist will have a strong background in polymer science, processing tools such as extrusion and injection molding, materials characterization and hands-on experience with developing and optimizing adhesive formulations. The role will focus on the design, development, and commercialization of innovative products with a focus on adhesive technologies that deliver advanced performance and customer benefits. Background in development of skin contact formulations is preferred but not a must. The Lead Scientist conducts high-level analyses of data, interprets results, communicates findings, supports the successful completion of global projects, supports the technical component of marketing plans, selling strategies, competitive analysis programs and makes decisions that maximize return on technological investments. The position also provides recommendations for technology, equipment, processes and materials. The position operates under minimal supervision and exercises judgment on clear and specified objectives. This position requires an MS or a PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, with 8+ years of experience in an industry setting, demonstrating leadership on technical projects. Hollister operates in a hybrid work environment. Responsibilities: * Lead the design, development, and optimization of polymeric formulations, with a focus on hydrocolloid adhesives for medical skin contact applications. * Oversee and conduct research on polymer and adhesive materials to improve product performance, durability, and stability. * Develop test methods related to skin health function testing and lead capability enhancement initiatives. * Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, clinical sciences, quality, and manufacturing, to ensure smooth product development and commercialization. * Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific rigor. * Provide recommendations for technology, equipment, processes and materials. * Develop a deep understanding of product insights related to ostomy care and integrate user needs with formulation development objectives. * Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in polymer science, skin science and formulation to drive innovation in our product pipeline. * Develop and execute experimental plans, including formulation testing, stability studies, and material performance evaluations. * Generate technical reports, patents, and peer-reviewed publications to communicate research outcomes and protect intellectual property. * Engage with suppliers and external partners to source materials and collaborate on technical projects. * Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal quality standards in all product development efforts. Requirements: * 8+ years in research and manufacturing settings. * MS or PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. Specialized Skills/Technical Knowledge: * Designs and executes complex experiments to study research objectives. * Fully competent in the principles and practices of polymer formulations, adhesives and associated chemistry. * Recommends new scientific methods and tools to study product properties. * Mentors on subject matters related to principles and practices on formulations and testing. * Develops detailed reports documenting experimental or clinical studies. * Demonstrates advanced analytic problem-solving abilities. * Demonstrates an ability to apply new approaches to problems. * Demonstrates an interest in and understanding of industry developments and trends (i.e. is a member of professional organizations, attending several meetings and/or workshops per year). * Demonstrates understanding of the capital budgeting process. * Demonstrates a strong knowledge of market and customer needs. Essential Functions of the Role: * On-site, laboratory-based role requiring ability perform experiments / run relevant tests. * Requires the ability to stand for up to one hour. * Requires the ability to lift 25 lbs. * Requires the ability to travel. #LI-Hybrid Our Total Rewards package in aggregate is above market and includes competitive pay, generous paid time off programs, peer-to-peer recognition, health and life insurance, wellness programs and incentives, generous retirement savings, and a unique Benefit of Employee Share Ownership Program (BESOP). About Hollister Incorporated Hollister Incorporated is an independent, employee-owned company that develops, manufactures and markets healthcare products worldwide. The company spearheads the advancement of innovative products for ostomy care, continence care and critical care, and also creates educational support materials for patients and healthcare professionals. Headquartered in Libertyville, Illinois, Hollister has manufacturing and distribution centers on three continents and sells in nearly 80 countries. Hollister is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Firm of John Dickinson Schneider, Inc., and is guided both by its Mission to make life more rewarding and dignified for people who use our products and services, as well as its Vision to grow and prosper as an independent, employee-owned company, and in the process, to become better human beings. Hollister is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability Job Req ID: 33727 Job Segment: R&D, Compliance, Law, Product Development, Research, Legal