Senior R&D Scientist

Senior R&D Scientist

The Senior R&D Scientist is responsible for advancing catalyst and catalytic process research at the SINOPEC-UOP Joint Research Center. This position independently develops and carries out experimental research, evaluates technical data, and helps move new catalyst and process concepts from early-stage research through validation using a structured R&D development process.

The role works closely with scientists, engineers, and laboratory personnel and contributes to technical innovation, intellectual property development, and the identification of new research opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and perform research activities involving catalysts and catalytic process technologies from initial concept through the various stages of the R&D development process.
• Develop experimental plans and conduct laboratory testing using fixed-bed micro-reactors, autoclaves, catalyst evaluation systems, and related laboratory equipment.
• Coordinate experimental activities with laboratory technicians and provide technical direction to support accurate, efficient, and safe laboratory work.
• Evaluate and interpret experimental results to determine technical feasibility and identify opportunities for further development.
• Translate research findings into potential chemical process concepts, including preparation of process block diagrams, technical conclusions, and recommended next steps.
• Generate and evaluate new catalyst and process ideas and prepare invention disclosures when appropriate to support patent and intellectual property activities.
• Research scientific publications, patent literature, and competing technologies to stay current with industry developments and identify potential areas for innovation.
• Prepare and communicate research results, project progress, and technical recommendations to management and other stakeholders across SINOPEC and Honeywell UOP.
• Maintain high standards of laboratory safety and ensure research activities are performed in accordance with established safety requirements, procedures, and applicable regulations.

Required Qualifications and Technical Skills

• Demonstrated knowledge of heterogeneous and/or homogeneous catalysis, including reaction mechanisms and characterization of catalyst active sites.
• Strong foundation in chemical thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, and reaction engineering.
• Experience using analytical techniques and instrumentation such as gas chromatography (GC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), or comparable analytical systems.
• Practical experience operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting fixed-bed micro-reactors, autoclaves, or similar laboratory-scale reaction equipment.
• Understanding of structured technology-development methodologies, including stage-gate or comparable R&D processes.
• Strong quantitative, analytical, and troubleshooting abilities, including the ability to evaluate technical challenges and develop alternative approaches.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to explain technical findings to audiences with varying levels of technical expertise.
• Ability to manage research responsibilities independently while contributing effectively to multidisciplinary project teams.

Education and Experience

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific or engineering discipline.
• Approximately 1–5 years of relevant research experience involving catalyst development, catalytic processes, or related technologies in an academic or industrial environment.
• Relevant research completed as part of a doctoral program may be considered toward the experience requirement.
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States.