Research Scientist

Now hiring! Research Scientist

Wyandotte, MI

We are looking for a Research Scientist to join our Performance Materials team in Wyandotte.

Come create chemistry with us!

The Performance Materials division is at the forefront of the much-needed sustainability transformation in plastics. Our experts co-create products with customers to bring innovations to major industry sectors such as transportation, consumer goods, industrial applications, and construction.These solutions contribute to a sustainable future by pushing the boundaries in thermal resistance, robustness and lightweight applications.

We are seeking a self-starter, motivated and enthusiastic professional like you to join our team as a R&D Scientist to work in the Transportation, Furniture, CASE and Footwear Technical development team in Wyandotte, MI site. As part of N-PMN/PDA, the TFCF R&D Scientist develops the formulation, conducts the testing and develops the processing parameters to meet the innovation needs of our business.

Your daily tasks will include planning, designing, and executing research activities and experiments to accomplish project objectives. You will be relied on to provide knowledge and expertise in achieving research targets, interpreting results, and reporting them to key stakeholders. Additionally, you will have one technician reporting directly to you and as such, you will be responsible for a safe and healthy work environment.

You will directly report to the Head of Technical Development and R&D for Transportation, Furniture, CASE and Footwear in the PM organization.

As a Research Scientist, you create chemistry by...

• Executing / leading R&D activities in Polyurethanes as defined by R&D project / topic goals.


• Participating in ideation process by closely working with marketing, sales, TD, production etc. at PM but also via other BASF units and externally (e.g., customers, suppliers, universities).


• Providing technical guidance to lab technician and demonstrate leadership in behavior in support of the Exposure Reduction Program and other safety programs to help ensure the health and safety of all.


• Protecting and safeguarding R&D results by documentation and patenting; communicate and share openly knowledge within respective technical community and BASF internally where appropriate. Utilize & support further development of digital tools to drive digitalization of R&D at BASF.


• Committing to clients; listen to, understand, and gain knowledge from key customers in the industries served, prioritize what they value and need, while engaging and driving to fulfill those needs, and translate customer needs into a product.


• Providing regular project updates to management, supporting scientists, marketing, sales, and tech service colleagues. Your ability to holistically envision a technical solution from formulation, manufacturing, processing, and application functionality will drive your success.

If you...

• Hold a degree such as PhD in chemistry, polymer science, materials science or related disciplines.


• Have minimum two years experience in Chemical industry


• Are experienced in Polyurethane formulations and applications

Create your own chemistry with you@BASF

At BASF, you will have the chance to do meaningful work towards building a more sustainable future. In addition to competitive compensation and benefits, BASF provides you with access to a wide range of elements to help you be your best. It’s what we call you@BASF. We are committed to providing benefits, programs, and opportunities that support our employees’ overall well-being, personal growth, and a safe, collaborative, and inclusive work environment.

Just some of the many benefits we offer include:

• Flexible work arrangements whenever possible


• Highly competitive retirement savings plan with company match and investment options


• Well-being programs that include comprehensive mental health support for you and your household family members


• Family forming benefits (fertility, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, maternity/parental leave, and more)


• Back-up child and elder care with discount programs for families of all ages and stages


• Mentoring and career development opportunities that allow you to share, learn, and thrive


• Matching gifts program that allows you to deepen the impact of your contributions to qualified charities.


• Employee crisis support for when the unexpected happens


• Access to our BASF wine cellar, employee discounts, and much more!

About us

As one of the largest chemical companies in North America we have been finding solutions for your everyday needs and addressing the most complex economic, environmental, and sustainability challenges for more than 150 years!

At BASF we empower our employees with the tools, guidance and opportunities they need to advance and succeed in work and life. Giving you the support you need to be your best and fulfill your personal ambitions is what helps us create chemistry. After all, our success is linked to yours. Whatever path you envision, BASF is a great place to build a rewarding, successful career.

Belong to Something Bigger. #belongatBASF

Privacy statement

BASF takes security & data privacy very seriously. We will never request financial information of any kind via email, private text message or direct message on any social medial platform or job board. Furthermore, we will never send a candidate a check for equipment or request any type of payment during the job application process. If you have experienced any of the above, please contact [email protected] to report fraud.

Equal employment opportunities

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, citizenship, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, disability status, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.