Senior R&D Scientist

Senior R&D Scientist

The Senior R&D Scientist conducts independent research focused on catalyst and catalytic process technologies at the Sinopec-UOP Joint Research Center. This role designs and executes experiments, analyzes complex experimental data, and contributes to the development of catalyst and process technologies through a structured stage-gate R&D process. The position also supports intellectual property development and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to advance innovative research initiatives.

Essential Functions:

• Conduct and execute catalyst and catalytic process research projects through all phases of the stage-gate R&D process.
• Design, plan, and execute laboratory experiments using micro-reactors, autoclaves, and other catalyst testing equipment.
• Supervise and collaborate with laboratory technicians to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality experimental execution.
• Analyze experimental data and develop viable chemical process concepts, including process block diagrams and technical recommendations.
• Identify innovative catalyst and process concepts and prepare invention disclosures to support intellectual property development.
• Review scientific literature, patents, and competitive technologies to identify emerging trends and research opportunities.
• Present technical findings and project updates to internal leadership and stakeholders within the Sinopec and Honeywell UOP organizations.
• Support and promote a strong laboratory safety culture while ensuring compliance with all applicable safety procedures and regulations.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of heterogeneous and/or homogeneous catalysis, reaction mechanisms, and catalyst active site characterization.
• Solid understanding of chemical thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and reaction engineering principles.
• Experience with standard analytical instrumentation such as GC, HPLC, TGA, or similar laboratory equipment.
• Hands-on experience operating and troubleshooting fixed-bed micro-reactors, autoclaves, or related experimental systems.
• Familiarity with stage-gate or structured R&D processes used to advance technologies from concept through validation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to develop alternative technical solutions when challenges arise.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively present technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.

Minimum Required Education, Credentials, Licenses and

Experience:

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• 1-5 years of industrial or academic research experience in catalyst or catalytic process development. Relevant doctoral research may be considered as qualifying experience.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.