Materials Scientist - Weathering

Avery Dennison is seeking a Materials Scientist to meet organizational needs for accelerated weathering testing, outdoor aging, analytical testing, data analysis/machine learning, and specific weathering research projects with pressure sensitive adhesive film constructions for Graphics & Durables applications. The position will be with the Global Materials Science and Characterization (MSC) Group, which primarily supports R&D activities at Avery Dennison's Mentor, OH location, chartered to support and resolve technical problems from long term innovation projects to urgent manufacturing and quality issues stemming from across Avery Dennison's global operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide effective weathering test support, communicate effectively with test requesters regarding samples and test conditions, and prioritize tests with accurate service life predictions based on accelerated test protocols.

• Manage the weathering lab, ensure smooth operation in the laboratory, and efficiency and quality of weathering results. Perform routine calibration and maintenance of weathering chambers and troubleshoot issues/errors using manuals and guidance from technical reps or vendors.

• Under the guidance of senior technical staff, develop and implement novel accelerated test methods with strong correlation to real-life aging to support new product applications connecting product CTQ's, quality issues and customer needs. Collaborate with internal and external resources including customers, suppliers, academia to identify new additives, testing methodologies, and voice of the customer.

• Regularly liaise with other weathering team members across all locations globally to harmonize test methods and conditions and to understand the status of laboratory equipment.

• Work closely with the analytical characterization and quality teams to find the root cause of product failures in real-world applications.

• Interpret data, write technical reports, and communicate analytical results with MSC and divisional scientists and production engineers in a high-quality, professional, and timely manner.

• Support management in the procurement, purchase, and installation of new equipment

• Utilize ELN/LIMS system and carefully curate reports and help with the cogent population of databases.

• Provide and maintain a safe work environment by participating in safety programs, committees, or teams and by conducting laboratory and pilot plant safety audits.

• PhD in Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering or a related discipline with at least 2 years experience in polymer degradation most desirable; MS degree with 5 years of experience and relevance.

• Experience in hands-on polymer degradation experiments, including experiment design, weathering test chamber operation, result analysis, and lifetime prediction.

• Experience in lab management and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions is highly desirable. Any prior supervisory experience is a plus.

• Familiarity with weathering test standards. Knowledge, understanding and a track record of conformance to ISO 17025 is advantageous

• Experience in analytical techniques such as spectroscopic, optical and chromatographic approaches to investigate weathering samples.

• Experience in machine learning, statistical modeling and chemometrics including multivariate data analysis, principal component analysis etc. and physical/chemical modeling of degradation mechanisms is highly desirable.

• Knowledge of polymers/coatings and techniques to characterize as well as a good breadth in general, organic, and polymer chemistry principles and laboratory practices is desirable.

• Effective written and oral communications.

• Demonstrated ability to think critically and solve problems using the above mentioned disciplines and techniques.

• High level of motivation, initiative, and energy being capable of working in a fast paced and dynamic environment.

• Able to perform moderately complex mathematical calculations.

• Proficient computer skills with both office software and any lab based software packages.

• Ability to work independently as well as in a team.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to establish effective working relationships.

• Less than 10% travel is expected in the role.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or other protected status. EEOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or other protected status. EEOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

If you require accommodations to view or apply for a job, alternative methods are available to submit an application. Please contact (440)534-6000 or NA.TA.Operations@averydennison.com to discuss reasonable accommodations.