Director of Research Development; Filtration and Life Sciences

In this role as a Research and Development Director, you will lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to develop and industrialize next-generation mineral-based products for filtration (industrial, food, pharma, energy) and life sciences (sustainable agriculture, animal welfare, pharmaceuticals). You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, customers, and external partners to create new products that promote long‑term organic growth. If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding role that allows you to make a difference, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Apply now and take the first step towards shaping the future of the industry!

• Strategic Innovation & Pipeline Management:
  Work closely with commercial development teams to develop and implement a multi‑year R&D roadmap for mineral applications in high‑growth areas.
• End‑to‑End Product Development:
  Oversee the full lifecycle of new products, from lab‑scale experimentation and pilot manufacturing runs to successful industrialization.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship:
  Manage a team of scientists, engineers, and lab technicians; foster a culture of scientific excellence, accountability, and continuous professional development. Encourage the use of AI tools (LLMs, predictive models) for product development.
• Cross‑Functional
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Commercial teams to ensure products meet customer requirements, cost targets, and production feasibility.
• Regulatory & Quality Excellence:
  Ensure all research and products comply with global standards, including GMP for life sciences, EPA/USDA for agriculture, and ISO 9001/13485 for industrial applications.
• Intellectual Property (IP) Strategy:
  Identify patentable technologies and collaborate with legal counsel to secure and defend the company’s IP portfolio.

• Expertise in product and process development, with a proven track record of delivering successful outcomes from initial opportunity analysis all the way through to commercialization.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in R&D, with a focus on developing high‑performing teams.
• Deep understanding of science and technology as a competitive differentiator and a talent for using this knowledge to drive a new product pipeline.
• Strong business acumen, with an understanding of the financial implications of new products and processes.
• Exceptional interpersonal and team‑building skills, backed by strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Knowledge of Filtration and/or Life Sciences markets and technologies a plus.
• Approximately 20% travel.

Engineering, Applied Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Eng, Chemistry, Biology, or similar field

• B.S. with 15+ years of experience, majority in R&D
• M.S. with 12+ years of experience, majority in R&D
• PhD with 10+ years of experience, majority in R&D