Materials Characterization Scientist

Overview

Ashland Specialty Ingredients, GP invites applications for a Materials Characterization Scientist to join our R&D / Analytical Services team at the Wilmington, DE site. This role supports critical laboratory operations and analytical workflows and reports to the Material Characterization Team Leader.

• Independently perform routine and moderately complex analytical testing using spectroscopy, microscopy, thermal analysis, and chromatography techniques.
• Take ownership of the optical laboratory, including leading and supporting FT‑IR and UV‑Vis workflows, ensuring high‑quality, reliable, and timely analytical results, day‑to‑day operations, workflow efficiency, and instrumentation oversight.
• Own optical microscopy and phase contrast microscopy workflows, including sample preparation, analysis, and documentation.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation in accordance with established procedures and safety standards.
• Accurately record, process, and report data using laboratory notebooks, Excel, and LIMS systems.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.
• Support laboratory relocations, equipment setup, and transitions as needed.
• Safely perform tasks including lifting up to 50 lbs, changing gas cylinders, and handling liquid nitrogen dewars.
• Actively contribute to organizational goals by taking initiative, executing on objectives, and maintaining a strong focus on performance and safety.
• Improve organizational capability through a can‑do attitude, collaboration, effective communication, and positive influence.

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience working in a materials characterization or analytical laboratory environment.
• Hands‑on experience with UV‑Vis and FT‑IR spectroscopy and microscopy instruments.
• Working knowledge of polymer chemistry, organic chemistry, and material properties.
• Experience using Microsoft Office applications and LIMS systems.
• Ability to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory instrumentation.
• Physical ability to safely perform required laboratory tasks (including lifting and equipment handling).
• Demonstrated responsible and ethical behavior at all times.
• Ability to drive value through business understanding, sound decision‑making, and innovative thinking.

• Experience with chromatography systems and Empower software.
• Experience in wet chemistry techniques.
• Experience maintaining thermal analysis instrumentation.
• Prior experience owning laboratory workflows or instrumentation areas.
• Strong experience in data analysis and reporting using Excel.
• Familiarity with laboratory relocation or setup activities.

Wilmington, Delaware

Ashland is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled/Gender Identity/Sexual Orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.