R&D- Compatibilization of contaminants

Role Description

Plastic waste collection is becoming common practice in many places nowadays and separation by type has become quite performant.  Yet flexible multi-material structures, as present in packaging with barrier properties, cannot yet be separated easily into their individual components. The recycled stream of such items is a mix of immiscible polymers. Compatibilizers are used to improve the flow and mechanical properties of such mixes and thereby enable the re-use of the recycled materials in high-value applications. Finding the right compatibilizer and dosage for a given recycled product is key. In this project the student will use rheological methods supported by analytical methods (including DSC, microscopy, …) to select the best compatibilizer for a given system and determine optimal levels.  The results of this research will be applied to new packaging design and their recyclability potential in high-value applications will be evaluated.

What We Expect

• You are currently studying for a Master’s Degree or equivalent in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science
• You can work independently but you are also a good team player collaborating with people from different functions, geographies and backgrounds.
• You take initiative and are proactive regarding learning new skills
• You have good communication and written skills (especially in English) proactively sharing what you are doing and what assistance you need to progress on your project
• You are curious and passionate about innovation with a strong drive for results and feel a strong sense of achievement by providing real solutions

You can start between August – September for a period of 4 to 6 months (exact timing to be discussed)

Dow’s internships offer you the opportunity to:

o  Work in a R&D facility where new technologies are evaluated from concept to pilot scale.

o  Experience a dynamic work environment and work with engineers, scientists, technicians and/or operators.

o  You will gain hands-on experience and give a real contribution to an important improvement project.

o  Explore Career Opportunities – by working in the field you have chosen, you can receive an inside look at your potential career path.

o  Network – meet a variety of people in your chosen profession through your internship, allowing you to form relationships you can build on in the future.

o Find Mentors – certain individuals can help guide you through your internship and expose you to opportunities to which you can aspire.

Application process

After we have received your application, take into account that it will take a few weeks to go through every letter and CV received. If we want to learn more about your background and skills, we will be in touch with you.

Have we sparked your interest? Let’s continue the conversation! Apply and we’ll be in touch with you.

About Dow

As part of our commitment to the diversity of our workforce, Dow is working in partnership with PeopleScout to deliver equal opportunities regardless of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion. We encourage every employee to bring their whole self to work each day, that enables them to not only deliver more value, but also enjoy a more fulfilling career.

Dow (NYSE: DOW) combines global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation and leading business positions to achieve profitable growth. The Company’s ambition is to become the most innovative, customer centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company, with a purpose to deliver a sustainable future for the world through our materials science expertise and collaboration with our partners. Dow’s portfolio of plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones businesses delivers a broad range of differentiated science-based products and solutions for its customers in high-growth market segments, such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer care. Dow operates 106 manufacturing sites in 31 countries and employs approximately 35,700 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $39 billion in 2020. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit www.dow.com or follow @DowNewsroom on Twitter.