R&D Specialist, Polymerization

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Would you like to join a global, growing company that innovates for a more sustainable tomorrow? UPM could be the team for you. We are frontrunners in developing renewable alternatives to fossil-based materials. Besides enabling both businesses and consumers make more sustainable choices, we strive to create a positive UPM experience for all our employees around the world. We live by our values – trust and be trusted, achieve together, renew with courage. Together we can renew the everyday, for a future beyond fossils!

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We are now looking for a R&D Specialist, Polymerization to join our global team in Nowa Wieś Wrocławska, Poland.

Greetings from your future manager

“Are you passionate about innovation in polymer science? Looking for a role where your ideas matter? Join our team to drive cutting-edge projects and create advanced polymer solutions for global markets. Become part of a team that values creativity, research and sustainability.” - Bartosz Janicki, Global Development Manager, Polymerization, PD and Innovations

What You Will Do

  • Conduct emulsion polymerization processes on a laboratory scale as part of projects for developing new dispersions and modifying existing ones
  • Create research plans, maintain documentation and prepare implementation reports
  • Develop methods for verifying the performance parameters of dispersions and the properties of polymer films
  • Monitor process parameters and the quality of the final product
  • Collaborate with raw material suppliers
  • Analyze patents and industry publications

Who You Are

  • You have a minimum master’s degree (preferably in chemistry; specialization in polymers will be an additional asset)
  • You have experience in laboratory and research work, especially in emulsion polymerization (an asset)
  • You have ability to plan and carry out research work
  • You are able to search for and interpret scientific information
  • You are an analytical thinker with creativity, strong communication skills and natural inquisitiveness
  • You are fluent in English; knowledge of other languages is considered an asset

This Is What We Offer To You

  • A meaningful job: We have an inspiring purpose “We renew the everyday for a future beyond fossils”. Our work is impactful and transformative
  • A caring community: Our community is built on great team spirit and shared commitment. We care about each other and the well-being of our colleagues. We support the work-life balance of all our employees
  • Development opportunities: We offer you great opportunities to learn and grow throughout your career. We are an international, multi-business organization offering plenty of avenues for personal growth
  • Responsible employer: Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to ambitious, science-based sustainability targets in all areas from climate change to biodiversity. We foster diversity and inclusivity, offering a work environment in which everyone can be themselves

Learn about our Rewarding and our Ways of working

Additional Information

The position holder will report to Global Development Manager, Polymerization, PD and Innovations.

This position is fully onsite.

Ability to travel - up to 5%

Please apply via the link above and attach your CV and cover letter latest by January 17, 2026. Please note that we accept only applications submitted through our online application system. We begin reviewing applications as they are received, and you may be contacted before the application deadline.

For support with submitting your application, please contact the HR Service Center at careers@upm.com or tel. +48123999499.

If you have any concerns about the recruitment and selection process, you can report those online through the UPM Report Misconduct channel using the link: https://www.upm.com/investors/governance/compliance/reportmisconduct/

UPM Adhesive Materials provides high-performance, innovative self-adhesive products, including label materials, graphics solutions, and specialty tapes, as well as reliable services close to customers. We are one of UPM’s fastest-growing global businesses employing around 3,200 professionals. In 2024, our sales reached nearly €1.6 billion ($1.7 billion). Read more: adhesivematerials.upm.com

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