Head of Applications, Display

About the role

BASF is hiring a Head of Applications, Display for its Research & Development team in Shanghai, China. The role leads the global application organization supporting advanced display materials and technologies and coordinates application laboratories in China, Switzerland and across the Display Organization. It acts as the key interface between customers, commercial teams, application scientists and material development teams.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate global display application laboratories, primarily in China and Switzerland.
• Manage global application activities for display materials such as LCD alignment materials, optical films and additives (e.g. photo-initiators, PAG), as well as emerging display technologies.
• Develop and standardize characterization methods, test protocols and data reporting practices globally.
• Act as the key technical interface with customers, working with technical sales to turn their needs into development programs and experimental plans.
• Collaborate with Material Development, Business and Product Management teams to accelerate product commercialization.
• Lead, coach and develop a team of application scientists and engineers.
• Manage project portfolios, priorities, resources and timelines across multiple regions.

Required profile

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Optics or a related field.
• 8+ years of industrial experience in display materials, electronic materials, specialty chemicals or related industries.
• Proven leadership experience in Application Development, Technical Service, R&D or Product Development.
• Experience working directly with customers and managing cross-functional technical projects in a global environment.
• Fluent in English.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of electronic and display materials, characterization techniques and application development.
• Preferred: knowledge of LCD alignment technologies, optical films, photoinitiators and display manufacturing processes.
• Preferred: strong experimental design, problem-solving and data analysis skills, and experience managing global teams and laboratory operations.