Lead Scientist

Date:
Feb 20, 2026

Location:

Libertyville, IL, US,

Company:
Hollister Incorporated

We Make Life More Rewarding and Dignified

Department:
Research & Development

The Lead Scientist, Technology Development advances Hollister’s Ostomy R&D portfolio by leading the design, development, and commercialization of polymeric technologies—including deep expertise in polymers, adhesives, materials characterization and formulation development—to deliver measurable performance and customer benefits. The role drives cross‑functional programs from concept through scale‑up, provides technical leadership and mentoring, and ensures scientific rigor in experimental design, materials characterization, and data‑driven decision making.

Success in this role requires deep expertise in polymer science and processing—e.g., extrusion, injection molding—demonstrated experience optimizing formulations, and the ability to translate user needs into technical requirements while operating within quality and regulatory expectations. An advanced degree (MS or PhD) and 8+ years of relevant industry experience are required.

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of novel formulations and mixing processes
• Oversee and conduct research on polymer and adhesive materials to improve product performance, durability, and stability
• Develop test methods related to skin health function testing and lead capability enhancement initiatives
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including engineering, clinical sciences, quality, and manufacturing, to ensure smooth product development and commercialization
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior scientists and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific rigor
• Provide recommendations for technology, equipment, processes and materials
• Develop a deep understanding of product insights related to ostomy care and continence care and integrate user needs with formulation development objectives

• Conduct experiments, simulations, and feasibility studies
• Lifting, pulling and/or pushing up to 30 pounds
• Communicate effectively via email, phone, and virtual platforms
• Ensure data accuracy and confidentiality in compliance with company and legal standards

• Masters Degree with a minimum of 6 years of related experience

• MS or PhD in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field
• 8+ years of industry experience in research, development, and/or manufacturing environments with evidence of technical leadership
• Proficiency in formulation development—e.g., extrusion, injection molding—and materials characterization; demonstrated ability to design and execute complex experiments
• Strong analytical problem‑solving skills; ability to translate user needs into technical requirements and to drive data‑informed decisions
• Clear, concise technical communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and with external partners
• Experience generating technical reports and supporting intellectual property—e.g., invention disclosures, patents
• Experience with medical skin‑contact formulations—e.g., hydrocolloid adhesives—and related test methods
• Background in compatibilization strategies, interfacial adhesion, and surface science for multi‑material systems
• Experience with nonwovens and advanced manufacturing processes relevant to ostomy products and related devices
• Familiarity with scale‑up/technology transfer to manufacturing and with quality/regulatory expectations for medical devices

• Be Agile—Innovates and adapts quickly, approaching change with curiosity while persisting through obstacles
• Be Customer Centric—Considers the needs, experiences and feedback of customers in all we do
• Be People‑Focused—Builds trust and collaborates with an inclusive and empathetic approach
• Be Performance Driven—Operates with an ownership mindset, driving meaningful outcomes
• Live The Schneiders’ Legacy, Our Noble Purpose—Passionately serves Our Mission and Vision, while demonstrating the Immutable Principles

• The anticipated base pay…