Sr. Research Chemist, Photochromic Dye

PPG's Specialty Coatings and Materials business is looking for a Senior Research Chemist to support the development and scale‑up of photochromic dyes used in smart/transition eyewear. You will combine hands‑on laboratory research with process development, focusing on translating organic synthesis from bench scale to pilot and manufacturing operations. You will have expertise in organic synthesis, process optimization, and scale‑up chemistry, while working with multiple teams to accelerate commercialization of new photochromic products.

You will report to the Senior Research Manager and sit onsite in our Monroeville, PA site.

• Develop synthetic routes from laboratory to pilot/plant scale.
• Improve process yield, purity, throughput, cycle time, and cost through data‑driven experimentation.
• Investigate reaction kinetics, impurity profiles, and mass balance to support process decisions.
• Perform hands‑on laboratory work, including synthesis, purification, and scale‑up activities.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and process updates using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) and digital data systems.
• Collaborate with analytical, engineering, QA, production, and project teams to ensure successful technology transfer.
• Communicate findings through technical reports and presentations.
• Support team productivity improvements and workflow efficiencies.
• Experience with flow chemistry/reactors is advantageous.

• PhD in Organic Chemistry (or related field) with 2–5 years of industrial process development experience
• OR
• MS in Organic Chemistry (or related field) with 6+ years of industrial process development experience
• Background in modern organic synthesis
• Experience with process development and scale‑up from bench to kilo‑lab/pilot scale
• Expertise in reaction optimization and process troubleshooting
• Understanding of small‑molecule process development
• Experience with synthesis equipment and instrumentation
• Proficiency with digital tools such as ELN, SAP, and laboratory data systems

• HPLC
• GC
• Column chromatography
• NMR interpretation
• GPC interpretation

• Experience with photochromic compounds, specialty chemicals, or dyes
• Polymer chemistry/process experience
• Experience transferring laboratory processes to manufacturing
• Evidence of innovation that improved efficiency, yield, quality, or cost

PPG offers comprehensive benefits such as Health, Dental, Life, Retirement Plan, Paid Vacation and Holidays, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Disability/Leave, Family leave, and other Voluntary benefit offerings. Actual benefit offerings confirmed at the time of hire.

PPG pay ranges and benefits can vary by location which allows us to compensate employees competitively in different geographic markets. PPG considers several factors in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, qualifications and education, licensure and certifications, and other organizational needs. Other incentives may apply. Our employee benefits programs are designed to support the health and well‑being of our employees.

Any insurance coverages and benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents. Benefits will be discussed with you by your recruiter during the hiring process.

PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

If you need an adjustment due to a disability, please email