NMR Spectroscopy Researcher Specialist

With a strategy centered on people and sustainability, Braskem is engaged in contributing to the value chain to strengthen the Circular Economy. Braskem’s 9,000 team members dedicate themselves every day to improving people's lives through sustainable solutions in chemicals and plastics. With its corporate DNA rooted in innovation, Braskem offers a comprehensive portfolio of plastic resins and chemical products for diverse industries, such as food packaging, construction, manufacturing, automotive, agribusiness, health and hygiene, and more. With 40 industrial units in Brazil, the United States, Mexico, and Germany, Braskem exports its products to clients in over 70 countries.

Braskem America is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Braskem S.A. headquartered in Philadelphia. The company is the leading producer of polypropylene in the United States, with six production plants located in Texas, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, as well as an Innovation and Technology Center in Pittsburgh and a New Renewable Innovation Center in Lexington, which focuses on leveraging groundbreaking developments in biotechnology and chemical catalysis. For more information, visit www.braskem.com/usa.

Department: Innovation & Technology 

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Travel Involved: 5-10%

Job Type: Full Time, On Site 

Description:

We are seeking a highly skilled NMR Spectroscopy Researcher to run advanced nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses on polymers, catalysts, and bioproducts, supporting Innovation and Technology initiatives globally. This role combines deep technical expertise with modern data-driven approaches to deliver impactful insights for product development and process optimization.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Design, develop, and implement cutting-edge NMR methodologies (solution and solid-state) for polymeric materials, catalysts, and bioproducts.


• Operate and maintain high-field and low-field NMR instruments, including MAS probes and CryoProbes, ensuring optimal performance and calibration.


• Apply advanced data analysis techniques, including chemometrics and multivariate analysis, to interpret complex spectra and extract actionable insights.


• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support R&D projects, troubleshoot challenges, and meet critical milestones.


• Drive automation and digitalization initiatives within the laboratory to enhance efficiency and reproducibility.


• Ensure compliance with safety standards and best practices for chemical handling, storage, and waste disposal.


• Contribute to scientific knowledge through publications, patents, and participation in technical conferences.

Requirements:

• Education: Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or related field.


• Experience: Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in NMR spectroscopy, including solution and solid-state applications; experience with relaxometry and low-field NMR is a plus.


• Proficiency in modern data analytics tools (MNova, Python, MATLAB, or similar) for spectral interpretation and automation.


• Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to innovate in experimental design.


• Excellent communication skills for technical reporting and cross-functional collaboration.


• Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and regulatory compliance.

Preferred Skills and Experience: 

• Familiarity with machine learning applications in spectroscopy and predictive modeling.


• Experience integrating NMR data with complementary techniques (e.g., FTIR, DSC, GPC).


• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, global environment.


• Demonstrated leadership in mentoring junior researchers and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

What we offer

At Braskem, we offer more than just a competitive pay package. Our total rewards package includes a wide range of benefits you need for every stage of your life. Our benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits


• Retirement Benefits


• Maternity and Paternity Leave


• Life Insurance


• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance


• Teladoc


• A wide range of voluntary benefits like Pet Insurance, Legal and ID Theft Insurance


• Flexible work schedules like 9/80 schedules for eligible team members

Depending on qualifications, the successful candidate may be offered a position at a more appropriate level and/or ladder.

Candidates must be currently eligible to work in the United States without the need for any type of sponsorship now or in the future. Braskem is committed to equal employment opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified candidates and employees according to applicable law. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. If you require reasonable accommodation as part of the application process, please contact the Talent Acquisition team.