Now hiring! Senior R&D Scientist

Attapulgus (Onsite)

Relocation assistance provided.

We are looking for a Senior R&D Scientist to join our Refining Catalyst team in Attapulgus, GA.

Come create chemistry with us!

BASF’s Refinery Catalysts business is a global market leader in refinery catalysts technologies. The business develops and produces catalysts that enable refineries to manufacture transportation fuels from both traditional and renewable feedstocks.  

As a Senior R&D Scientist, you create chemistry by...

• Leading the design and execution of complex laboratory and pilot-scale research programs to develop and optimize FCC catalysts and additives.
• Translating experimental data into clear technical insights and strategic recommendations to enable product development and process improvements.
• Providing technical leadership across cross-functional teams, collaborating with R&D, manufacturing, and technical services to scale and implement new technologies.
• Driving the development of innovative testing methodologies, deactivation protocols, and performance evaluation techniques.
• Communicating technical outcomes effectively to both technical and business stakeholders, influencing decision-making and project direction.
• Mentoring and developing scientists and engineers, fostering knowledge transfer and capability growth within the organization.
• Leading or significantly contributing to high-impact R&D projects, ensuring the successful resolution of critical technical challenges and delivery of measurable business outcomes.
• Identifying and translating emerging scientific and industry trends into actionable research initiatives to support the innovation pipeline and long-term strategy.

If you...

• Hold a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or a related field with significant relevant experience
• Possess deep expertise in heterogeneous catalysis, catalyst formulation, and/or testing methodologies, with the ability to solve complex technical problems
• Demonstrate strong capability to define and lead scientific direction, including identifying opportunities for innovation and translating them into research programs 
• Exhibit an innovation-driven and entrepreneurial mindset, including proposing new technical concepts and advancing creative solutions 
• Have a strong record of technical contributions, such as patents, internal innovations, publications, or implemented process improvements (external recognition encouraged but not required at this stage) 
• Are able to influence technical decisions and contribute to project or portfolio direction; formal business advisory roles may develop with further progression 
• Possess excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with the ability to operate effectively in a multidisciplinary environment

Create your own chemistry with you@BASF

At BASF, you will have the chance to do meaningful work towards building a more sustainable future. In addition to competitive compensation and benefits, BASF provides you with access to a wide range of elements to help you be your best. It’s what we call you@BASF. We are committed to providing benefits, programs, and opportunities that support our employees’ overall well-being, personal growth, and a safe, collaborative, and inclusive work environment.

Just some of the many benefits we offer include:

• Flexible work arrangements whenever possible
• Highly competitive retirement savings plan with company match and investment options
• Well-being programs that include comprehensive mental health support for you and your household family members
• Family forming benefits (fertility, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, maternity/parental leave, and more)
• Back-up child and elder care with discount programs for families of all ages and stages
• Mentoring and career development opportunities that allow you to share, learn, and thrive
• Matching gifts program that allows you to deepen the impact of your contributions to qualified charities.
• Employee crisis support for when the unexpected happens
• Access to our BASF wine cellar, employee discounts, and much more!

About us

As one of the largest chemical companies in North America we have been finding solutions for your everyday needs and addressing the most complex economic, environmental, and sustainability challenges for more than 150 years!

At BASF we empower our employees with the tools, guidance and opportunities they need to advance and succeed in work and life. Giving you the support you need to be your best and fulfill your personal ambitions is what helps us create chemistry. After all, our success is linked to yours. Whatever path you envision, BASF is a great place to build a rewarding, successful career.

Belong to Something Bigger. #belongatBASF

Privacy statement

BASF takes security & data privacy very seriously. We will never request financial information of any kind via email, private text message or direct message on any social medial platform or job board. Furthermore, we will never send a candidate a check for equipment or request any type of payment during the job application process. If you have experienced any of the above, please contact Careers.NorthAmerica@basf.com to report fraud.

Equal employment opportunities

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, citizenship, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, disability status, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.