Qualifications for Postdoctoral Research Scholar
Position Title: Postdoctoral Research Scholar – Polymer Process Observation and White Paper Development
Company: Empirical Polymers Corporation
Position Type: Postdoctoral Consultant (single event with possible extension)
Overview: Empirical Polymers is seeking a highly qualified postdoctoral researcher to witness, document, and analyze a proprietary polymer processing technique for recycling vulcanized rubber. The scholar will play a critical role in validating polymer compounding with other petroleum-based products, converting waste rubber into reusable material. This role involves capturing every aspect of the process in writing to produce an industry- grade white paper and comprehensive technical documentation as key deliverables, while maintaining strict confidentiality.
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in a relevant field: A doctorate in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related discipline is required, with a strong record of peer-reviewed publications demonstrating research excellence
- Expertise in Polymer Science & Processing: Deep knowledge of polymer chemistry and engineering principles. The candidate should have hands-on experience with polymer processing techniques (e.g., extrusion, molding, compounding) and materials characterization. Similarly, knowledge of thermoplastic elastomers or polymer compatibilization would be beneficial.
- Data Documentation and Analysis Skills: Must have excellent ability to document experimental procedures and results. The role requires real-time note taking during process runs, organizing data (temperatures, pressures, material properties, etc.), and possibly capturing photographic or video evidence under controlled conditions. The ideal candidate will be responsible for capturing the proprietary process in writing, so an ability to observe, analyze, and record complex process information is critical.
- Technical Writing and Communication: Exceptional written communication skills are required. The postdoc will be responsible for writing an industry-grade white paper that articulates the process and its outcomes for a professional audience. Therefore, the candidate should be capable of producing well-structured, clear, and insightful technical documents. Prior experience writing journal articles, dissertations, or white papers is a must.
- Data Interpretation and Integration: Demonstrated ability to analyze test results and experimental data, and incorporate findings into technical documentation, including white papers. The candidate should be able to draw meaningful conclusions from lab data (e.g., tensile strength, rheology, thermal properties), support those conclusions with evidence, and clearly communicate them within the context of the proprietary process.
- Confidentiality and Ethical Conduct: A strong sense of professional ethics and the ability to handle confidential information with care. Strict confidentiality is non-negotiable – the candidate must agree to and uphold all non-disclosure agreements, given the trade-secret nature of the process. Experience working on confidential projects or in secure lab environments is highly desirable.
Compensation Matrix
Postdoctoral Research Scholar
Field & Experience: Low (0-2 years):$4750
Mid (3-5 years):$5500
High (6+ years):$6500