Senior Researcher (Polymer Processing)

GC (Rayong, Thailand)

Rayong, Thailand

PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited, or GC is Thailand’s largest integrated petrochemical and refining business and a leading corporation in Asia-Pacific region, both in size and wide range of products – from petrochemical to biochemical with the world’s number 1 bioplastics producer. Currently, we have manufacturing plants and distributors in Thailand and globally, with 40 local sites and 42 global operation sites.

About this position

The Senior Researcher (Polymer Processing) will lead and execute research projects focused on polymer processing, collaborating with various teams to enhance manufacturing processes and product design.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute research projects focused on polymer processing, including processability, processing window analysis, scaling up processes from lab-scale machines to commercial machines, and resin performance optimization for new and existing polymer grades.
• Work closely with the product application development and resin development teams to translate research findings into actionable improvements in the manufacturing process and product design.
• Conduct experiments to develop and develop processing guidelines that improve yield, reduce defects, and enhance final product performance across various polymer processing technologies, such as extrusion, roto molding, blow film, injection molding, and blow molding.
• Lead complex troubleshooting efforts for polymer processing challenges, working closely with both operators and technician teams to solve issues in the processing window, material behavior in processing, and machine functionality.
• Collaborate with machine and mold maker for mold, and tooling modifications to improve process performance, efficiency, and product quality.
• Identify, evaluate, and lead the adoption of new processing technologies and machinery to enhance the efficiency and capability of our polymer manufacturing processes. Align new technologies with the company's Technology Roadmap.
• Engage with external partners, vendors, and academic institutions to stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and bring new insights and best practices into the company.
• Create Term of Reference, machine specification for procurement activity of new equipment related to NPD project and commissioning of new machine.
• Knowledge Sharing & Mentorship: Lead knowledge-sharing initiatives, including the development and delivery of training on polymer processing principles, process optimization, and troubleshooting techniques. Mentor junior researchers and technicians.
• Support patent applications and the publication of key research findings.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Polymer Engineering, Polymer Science, Material science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• A Ph.D. in Polymer Processing or a related field is preferred but not required.
• Relevant certifications or training in advanced polymer processing, material science, or manufacturing technologies are a plus.
• Min. 5 years of direct experience in polymer processing industrial/academic research experience in relevant field.
• mold-related processing technology, e.g, rotomolding, blow molding, injection molding and related technologies.
• extrusion profile processing technology, e.g., extrusion pipe technology, extrusion film processing technology & downstream converting technology.
• Having polymer design knowledge is a plus.
• Strong background in polymer product applications and process optimization, particularly in research and development contexts.
• Experience in DOE, processability studies, processing window analysis, and understanding the relationship between polymer processing and final product performance.
• Hands-on experience with machine and mold modifications and new technology.