Leiden, Netherlands On-site Full-time

Inventive Food Technology (IFF) is hiring a Polymer Scientist - Senior Scientist I

About the Role

What You'll Do

As a Senior Scientist I, you will lead research into the structural and functional characteristics of polysaccharides and their chemically modified forms, focusing on how these materials behave in practical applications. Your work will bridge fundamental science and industrial implementation, supporting the creation of a novel class of high-performance biopolymers.

You will design and refine laboratory procedures, support pilot-scale testing with customers, and help expand in-house research capabilities. Your role includes ensuring data is accurately recorded and digitally managed, staying current with scientific advancements, and sharing findings through presentations internally and at external forums. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—both within the organization and with external partners—will be central to your success.

Requirements

You hold a PhD in Material Science, Physical Chemistry, or a closely related field, along with 1–3 years of industrial experience. You bring strong experimental skills, meticulous documentation habits, and a proven ability to turn scientific concepts into tangible product developments.

Independence, creativity, and problem-solving are essential. You thrive in fast-moving environments and demonstrate consistent initiative in scientific exploration. Fluency in English—spoken and written—is required, along with excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in collaborative settings.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in formulating or analyzing water-soluble polymers or designing biodegradable polymers
  • Familiarity with processing techniques for polysaccharide-based materials
  • Background in fabric care or personal care polymer applications

Technical Environment

You’ll work with advanced tools including generative AI, biomolecular engineering platforms, high-throughput screening systems, and full-scale testing at manufacturing sites, enabling rapid translation of lab results to industrial scale.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and annual incentive plan
  • Individual Choice Budget equal to 8% of base salary—flexible payout as monthly additions or exchanged for up to 15 extra days off per year
  • 25 vacation days plus 3 bridge days (2 selected by employer)
Required Skills
Generative AIAdvanced biomolecular engineeringHigh throughput screeningPolymer innovationProblem-solvingLab skillsRecordkeepingIndependent workMaterial SciencePhysical Chemistry Generative AIAdvanced biomolecular engineeringHigh throughput screeningPolymer innovationProblem-solvingLab skillsRecordkeepingIndependent workMaterial SciencePhysical Chemistry
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About company
Inventive Food Technology (IFF)
A global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering customers a broader range of natural solutions.
All jobs at Inventive Food Technology (IFF) Visit website
Job Details
Department Designed Enzymatic Biomaterials (DEB) platform within the R&D team
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Posted 7 days ago