Research Fellow

Amrize•Fishers, IN

8d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Research Fellow to drive innovation and technical problem-solving across our commercial roofing portfolio. In this role, you will lead advanced R&D initiatives across EPDM, asphalt, coating, and adhesive formulations while serving as a key technical authority to support our manufacturing facilities. You will bridge the gap between fundamental chemistry and practical application—translating cutting-edge material concepts into high-performance commercial roofing products while resolving complex, real-world manufacturing challenges on the plant floor.

Requirements

Ph.D. or Master’s Degree in Material Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or a related discipline.
15+ years of hands-on R&D experience in building materials, with a proven track record specifically in commercial roofing technologies.
Demonstrated experience working across rubber chemistry (e.g., EPDM formulations, processes, and manufacturing technologies).
Demonstrated experience working across asphalt chemistry (e.g., SBS/APP polymer-modified bitumen).
Demonstrated experience working across elastomeric coatings & single-ply adhesives (solvent-based, water-based, or hot-melt).
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot live manufacturing processes and perform root-cause failure analysis in an industrial plant environment.
Deep knowledge of thermal, mechanical, and analytical characterization techniques (e.g., DSC, TGA, FTIR, Rheology, Instron).
Familiarity with commercial roofing codes, wind uplift testing, and fire-resistance standards.
Successful candidates must adhere to all safety protocols and proper use of Amrize approved Personal Protection Equipment ("PPE"), including but not limited to respirators. Employees that are required to wear respirators must be clean shaven where the respirator seal meets the face in order to pass the qualitative and quantitative fit tests.

Nice To Haves

Travel up to 25–30% to manufacturing plants and field-testing locations as needed.
Willingness to travel (up to 25–30%) to manufacturing plants and field-testing locations as needed.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and optimization of commercial roofing technologies, including EPDM, and modified bitumen/asphalt roofing systems as well as coating and adhesive roofing accessories.
Design and execute testing protocols evaluating mechanical properties, weatherability, thermal resistance, flame retardancy, and long-term durability.
Guide material concepts from lab-scale formulation through pilot line runs and full commercial rollout.
Drive early-stage innovation, generate patentable intellectual property, and design proof-of-concept formulations to maintain market leadership.
Leverage AI models and emerging digital tools within R&D workflows to accelerate predictive testing, formulation modeling, and product development cycles.
Act as the primary technical expert to diagnose and resolve material-related production issues.
Partner with plant engineers to optimize line speeds, mix ratios, and cure environments without compromising product performance or quality standards.
Oversee technology transfers from lab scale to full-scale manufacturing, establishing quality control tolerances and process windows.
Work alongside Operations, Quality, Procurement, and Product Management to qualify alternative raw materials and drive cost-reduction (VAVE) projects.
Coach and mentor junior scientists and engineers, embedding scientific rigor and strategic project management across the team.
Build strategic alliances with chemical vendors, universities, test labs, and startups to co-develop emerging material technologies.
Ensure product compliance with industry standards (e.g., ASTM, FM Global, UL, Miami-Dade) and represent the organization in relevant trade associations.
Demonstrate a commitment to communicating, improving and adhering to health, safety and environmental policies in all work environments and areas. Promote a culture of safety and exhibit these behaviors.

Benefits

Competitive salary
401(k) pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax savings
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Medical, Dental, Disability and Life Insurance
Holistic Health & Well-being programs
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health and dependent care
Vision and other Voluntary benefits and discounts
Paid time off & paid holidays
Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity)
Educational Assistance Program
Dress for your day