Senior Research Specialist in Polymer Mechanics

About the role

3M's Corporate Research Laboratories (CRL) drive innovation by developing advanced technologies for new products and core businesses, working with global research teams on emerging materials, process technologies and digital solutions. The Senior Research Specialist in Polymer Mechanics joins the Corporate Research Laboratory-Asia in Hwaseong, South Korea, and works with curious, creative scientists and engineers worldwide.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development of a fundamental understanding of the mechanical behavior of 3M materials and products.
• Perform mechanical testing and analysis for soft materials, polymers and adhesives, and develop novel test methods for polymers and adhesives.
• Collaborate with application engineers, scientists and process engineers to support next-generation products through multiphysics and finite element analysis modeling and simulation.
• Support simulation engagements with customers and interface with customers to define problems and develop solutions.
• Guide the development of novel materials that meet the mechanical requirements of applications.
• Contribute to the understanding, development and establishment of digital twins.
• Initiate and contribute to the analysis and development of intellectual property.

Required profile

• Ph.D. completed and verified before starting, or a Master's degree with 5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, materials science, physics or chemistry.
• Experience in deformable body mechanics.
• Fundamental understanding of soft matter physics, mechanical behavior and polymer synthesis/structure.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work well in cross-functional environments.
• Highly motivated, self-starting and a creative problem solver.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with Python or another programming language.
• Experience with finite element analysis modeling and simulation.
• Proven success in global teams, close customer collaboration, and leading or contributing to high-performance teams.

The position is a regular full-time role with a 3-month probation period, based at the 3M Technical Research Institute in Hwaseong, South Korea. Applications are submitted online through the 3M application form, including a combined Korean and English resume with a cover letter.