Research Scientist Specialized in Polymer Science

Pittsburg, KS - USA

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: Yesterday

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Description

Pittsburg State University is accepting applications for a Research Scientist Specialized in Polymer Science in the Department of National Institute for Materials Advancement that is responsible for participatingin ongoing projects within the division focusing on the design synthesis and characterization of novel organic materials monomers and polymers for diverse applications. The successful candidate willbe responsible forperforming all stages of material development including synthesis testing and analysis of prepared samples as well as documenting results through detailed reports and scientific manuscripts. Additionally the Research Scientist will contribute to propose development for external funding opportunities and may be assigned to teach relevant undergraduate (BS) and graduate (MS) courses as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities

50% Research and Development

Designandconductadvanced research focused on the synthesis purification and characterization of new monomers polymers and polymer-based materials for various applications
Execute experiments including sample preparation materials testing data collection analysis and interpretation followed bypreparationof comprehensive technical reports.
Maintain and calibrate laboratory instruments; develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and safety in research practices.
Teach one or two undergraduate or graduate-level courses per semester asrequired.
Supervise and mentor students research assistants and junior scientists; review experimental data evaluate progress andprovidetechnical guidance.
Prepare written reports manuscripts and presentations for internal and external stakeholders conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
Collaborate with the Associate Vice President and Executive Directors to oversee the activities of technical staff students and research personnel within the division.

40% Business and Technical Management

Identify develop and manage externally funded research projects from federal state and industrial partners in alignment with the divisions strategicobjectives.
Writecompetitive research proposals technical reports patents and scientific publications to support new funding and commercialization efforts.
Engage and collaborate with external partners to advance technology transfer licensing and commercialization opportunities in consultation with the supervisor.
Conduct literature reviews andidentifyemerging research areas and fundable topics in polymer and materials science.
Represent the division at conferences trade shows and recruitment events; manage exhibition booths network with potential collaborators and serve on institutional committees as needed.
Maintain active communication with the polymer and bio-based materials communities andestablishrelationships with new industrial and academic partners.

10% Other Duties as Assigned

Performadditionalresponsibilities as delegated to support the mission and strategic goals of the division and university.

Education and Experience

Required Education and Experience - Time of Hire

Ph.D. in Polymer Science or related discipline
2years ofexperience with monomer and polymer synthesis design of new synthesis procedures characterizationanalysis and writing reports/manuscripts
2years ofexperience in applied polymer science
3Publications and presentations in polymers-related areas

Candidates must hold a doctoral degree in PolymerScience or a related field. Thisdegreerequirement ensures candidatespossessthe advancedtheoretical knowledge highly specialized methodologies and critical problem-solving skills fundamental to this competencies are typically developed and rigorouslyvalidatedonly through the comprehensive curriculum and intensive experiential experience inherent in a formal degree program.

Preferred Education and Experience

2 yearsofexperience inoperatinganalytical/testing instruments
1 yearofexperience in teaching BS and MS-level classes
2 years ofsupervisory experience

Screening Services (Background Checks): Your employment with Pittsburg State University is contingent on a satisfactory criminal background check and sex offender check.

Salary Range: Commensurate with Experience

Job Type: Unclassified

Appointment Duration: 12 months

Work Schedule: Full Time Monday Friday 8:00 AM 4:30 PM nights and weekends as needed

Application Documents Required*:

Resume
Cover Letter
Names and Contact Details for three (3) Professional References
Transcript

*Consolidate into two documents to upload.

Open Until Filledwith a first consideration date of January 23 2026.

Search Committee Chair: Mary Louise Widmar

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

PSU will only accept applications submitted through this process.

Pittsburg State University is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Required Experience:

DescriptionPittsburg State University is accepting applications for a Research Scientist Specialized in Polymer Science in the Department of National Institute for Materials Advancement that is responsible for participatingin ongoing projects within the division focusing on the design synthesis and ...