R&D Scientist – Silicone Surfactants & PIR Foam

THIS JOB REQUIRES RELOCATION TO CHICAGO. RELOCATION ASSISTANCE IS PROVIDED.

We are seeking a hands-on R&D Scientist to support the synthesis and application testing of novel silicone surfactants for polyisocyanurate (PIR) rigid foams.

In this bench-level chemistry role, you will work on both sides of product development: synthesizing siloxane polyether additives in the lab via hydrosilylation and evaluating their performance directly inside high-index PIR rigid foam formulations. You will optimize molecular structures (siloxane backbone length, EO/PO alkoxylation ratios) based on physical foam performance, cell structure, and insulation value.

Key Responsibilities

• Surfactant Synthesis: Perform benchtop synthesis of organo-modified silicones, silicone polyethers, and polyether-modified siloxanes using hydrosilylation reaction chemistry.
• PIR Foam Formulation: Prepare, pour, and test high-index polyisocyanurate (PIR) rigid foam formulations (NCO index > 200) using pentane, HFO, and water blowing agent systems.
• Property & Performance Testing: Measure how custom silicone additives impact foam processing and physical properties, including:
• Reactivity profiles (cream, gel, tack-free, and rise times).
• Cell morphology (cell size analysis via microscopy, closed cell content).
• Thermal and mechanical metrics ($k$-factor / R-value, compressive strength, density).
• Structure-Property Correlation: Analyze test data to establish how molecular changes in the silicone surfactant affect foam cell stabilization and nucleation.
• Process Scale-Up Support: Assist senior team members and process engineering in transferring lab-scale organosilicone reaction protocols to pilot autoclaves and production reactors.

Qualifications

• Education: B.S. (3+ years experience), M.S. (2+ years experience), or Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science.
• Core Technical Skills:

1. Synthetic Experience: Hands-on experience executing hydrosilylation reactions (Si-H siloxanes + allyl polyethers/alkoxylates) or organosilicone modifications.
2. Formulation Experience: Direct experience formulating and pouring rigid polyurethane or high-index PIR foams.

• Analytical Skills: Proficiency with basic lab characterization tools (FTIR, NMR, viscometry, thermal conductivity $k$-factor testing, cell size microscopy).