INEOS Styrolution  

Current Opportunity

Job Title: Global R&D Research Specialist (m/f/d)

Location: Cologne 

At INEOS Styrolution, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. As a Global R&D Research Specialist (m/f/d), you will drive research projects that shape the next generation of styrenic polymers while supporting our global manufacturing sites with technical expertise. You'll combine scientific excellence with practical problem-solving, leading a team of laboratory technicians, managing laboratory activities, and bringing innovative ideas from concept to industrial application.

Your Responsibilities

• Lead complex R&D projects for assigned polymer product lines (e.g. ASA, ABS, SAN, SBC and other styrenic polymers), from concept through laboratory development to first plant trials.
• Develop innovative products and process improvements that enhance product performance, competitiveness and profitability.
• Support global production sites by investigating quality and process issues, identifying root causes, validating raw materials and driving cost reduction initiatives.
• Build and expand technical expertise in polymer chemistry and materials science while transferring research findings into practical applications.
• Manage laboratory equipment, including pilot plants, and contribute to asset improvements.
• Lead, coach and develop a team of laboratory technicians, ensuring efficient laboratory operations, effective workload planning and the professional development of your team members.
• Contribute to the company's intellectual property strategy by evaluating patents, identifying opportunities and preparing patent applications.
• Ensure full compliance with safety, environmental and quality standards while promoting a strong safety culture.
• Collaborate with global R&D teams, manufacturing, product management, business stakeholders, customers and external research institutes.
• Support knowledge sharing, technical reporting, digitalization initiatives and continuous improvement across the global R&D organization.

What You Bring

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or a comparable scientific discipline.
• Initial industrial R&D experience combined with experience leading laboratory activities and laboratory personnel.
• Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry and polymer physics.
• Experience in translating scientific research into industrial applications.
• Solid project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proven leadership skills with experience in coaching and developing technical teams.
• Strong analytical thinking, creativity and a hands-on, solution-oriented mindset.
• Experience with or a strong interest in applying machine learning, data analytics and digitalization tools to accelerate R&D and improve laboratory processes.
• Interest in intellectual property and patent-related topics.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills in an international environment.
• Fluent in German and English