Senior R&D Scientist - Refining Catalysts

About the role

BASF's Refinery Catalysts business, a global market leader in refinery catalyst technologies, is hiring a Senior R&D Scientist for its Refining Catalyst team in Attapulgus, GA. The role is on-site and offers relocation assistance. You will act as a senior technical leader, advancing catalyst technologies from concept through implementation, shaping technical direction, mentoring scientists and contributing to the long-term innovation pipeline.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex laboratory and pilot-scale research programs to develop and optimize FCC catalysts and additives.
• Turn experimental data into technical insights and strategic recommendations for product development and process improvement.
• Provide technical leadership across cross-functional teams, working with R&D, manufacturing and technical services to scale and implement new technologies.
• Develop innovative testing methodologies, deactivation protocols and performance evaluation techniques.
• Communicate technical outcomes to technical and business stakeholders and mentor scientists and engineers.
• Contribute to high-impact R&D projects and turn emerging scientific and industry trends into research initiatives.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science or a related field with significant relevant experience.
• Deep expertise in heterogeneous catalysis, catalyst formulation and/or testing methodologies, with the ability to solve complex technical problems.
• Strong ability to define and lead scientific direction and an innovation-driven, entrepreneurial mindset.
• Record of technical contributions such as patents, internal innovations, publications or implemented process improvements (external recognition not required at this stage).
• Able to influence technical decisions and work in a multidisciplinary environment; formal business advisory roles may develop with progression.

What we offer

• Flexible work arrangements whenever possible.
• Retirement savings plan with company match and investment options.
• Mental health support, fertility, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and back-up child and elder care.
• Mentoring and career development, matching gifts for charity, and employee discounts.