Research Associate – Inkjet Research & Development – Billerica, MA Onsite

Cabot Corporation•Billerica, MA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Cabot Corporation is seeking a Research Associate to join its Inkjet Research & Development team in Billerica, Massachusetts. The role supports growth in the industrial inkjet printing market by contributing to new product development, formulation optimization, application testing, and material characterization for existing and next-generation inkjet products. This hands-on laboratory position involves developing and evaluating aqueous pigment dispersions and inkjet inks through formulation, testing, data analysis, and experimentation. Working under minimal supervision, the Research Associate conducts laboratory studies, characterizes materials, supports application testing, and produces reliable data to inform product development decisions. The role works closely with scientists and engineers across disciplines and provides exposure to colloidal stability, pigment dispersion, ink formulation, print quality, material compatibility, fluid properties, and analytical characterization. The position is fully onsite five days per week in Billerica, MA, and is part of a multidisciplinary R&D team. The employee is expected to follow safety, health, environmental, intellectual property, and Responsible Care requirements.

Requirements

One of the following education and experience combinations: high school diploma and at least 2 years of relevant industrial or laboratory experience; an associate degree in a technical or scientific discipline and at least 1 year of relevant industrial or laboratory experience; or a bachelor's degree in a scientific or engineering discipline.
Strong interest in experimental science and a passion for learning.
Ability to follow instructions and communicate clearly.
Ability to provide training to others.
Ability to classify and organize data logically and plan work to complete assignments on time.
Organizational skills to manage simultaneous work and meet deadlines.
Collaborative attitude and interpersonal skills, including willingness to share information and resources with peers.
Careful observation and adherence to testing protocols, with a quality- and precision-oriented approach.
Ability to recognize out-of-range results and unusual patterns.
Knowledge of computers and standard office applications.
Ability to work onsite five days per week in Billerica, Massachusetts.

Nice To Haves

Education or experience in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, polymer science or polymer engineering, colloid and surface science, or nanotechnology.
Experience with Python or similar programming languages for data analytics and workflow automation.
Familiarity with AI-powered tools for research, data analysis, workflow efficiency, and technical problem-solving, and willingness to learn and adopt new applications.
Coursework, laboratory experience, or demonstrated interest in ink, coating, or formulation science; pigment dispersions and colloidal stability; polymer chemistry; surface and interface science; materials characterization; analytical chemistry and instrumentation; rheology and fluid mechanics; experimental design and statistical analysis; data analysis and visualization; or printing, imaging, coatings, or related technologies.
Basic knowledge of laboratory testing equipment and protocols.
Experience with electronic notebook systems.

Responsibilities

Perform application testing to understand customer experience, including ink making, print testing using computer software, drawdowns, image analysis, and color evaluation of inks.
Contribute to material characterization by preparing samples, operating laboratory instruments, and ensuring accurate, reliable measurements.
Perform routine testing of ink and dispersion properties, including pH, viscosity, particle size, and surface tension.
Follow experimental plans established by the project leader.
Prepare logistics, materials, and equipment, and ensure experiments and testing are conducted thoroughly and on time.
Assist in planning and executing laboratory experiments to evaluate the material compatibility of Cabot products.
Collaborate with scientists and engineers to conduct experiments effectively and according to established protocols.
Enter experimental data into an electronic laboratory notebook and maintain clear, organized records.
Provide initial interpretation of results to guide ongoing research and development.
Analyze experimental data to identify trends and draw conclusions relevant to product performance.
Prepare and contribute to laboratory reports summarizing findings.
Maintain observational notes, enter data into databases, organize results, and provide summary interpretations to identify issues and trends.
Calibrate testing equipment and perform routine maintenance as needed.
Adhere to intellectual property standards within the area of responsibility.
Support implementation and maintenance of the Responsible Care Management System in line with applicable RC14001 technical specification requirements.
Follow SH&E procedures, standards, and regulations; maintain a safe work area; participate in scheduled safety meetings; and complete required safety training.