Job title: Research and Development Scientist 

Introduction:
Sappi is a global diversified wood-fiber company focused on unlocking the power of trees to make every day more sustainable. From each tree harvested to every mill rebuilt, sustainability is at the core of our business. We strive to discover natural alternatives to plastics and to drive forward sustainability with innovative partners.

Join us at the forefront of change in the Sappi Research & Development located in the beautiful and international city of Maastricht. Here, we are not just diversifying our product portfolio; we are pioneering solutions that redefine the potential of paper. Our focus is on delivering high barrier performance to fiber-based food packaging, develop breakthrough fiber and cost saving technologies. We create opportunities for a new era of recyclable packaging materials and functional papers for special applications.
As an R&D Scientist based in Maastricht, you will lead the charge in developing breakthrough concepts in Packaging and Specialty papers. Be prepared to dive into a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment where your responsibilities will comprise project management, collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, and setting up lab experimental programs focused on bio-based materials.

We welcome applications from young up-and-comers as well as from experienced candidates and are prepared to adjust the responsibilities and benefits accordingly.

The position is available immediately.

Role and responsibilities:

• You will plan and execute complex development projects in cross-functional teams, balance budgets and assure efficient realization of targets
• You contribute to the product and technology strategy of Sappi, create competitive advantages and generate new business opportunities
• You communicate complex technical matters effectively to technical and non-technical people, catering content and level of detail to the audience (e.g. writing reports, presenting, etc.)
• You create strong internal and external networks in order to execute projects effectively
• You manage stakeholders on different levels of the organization
• You ensure effective transition of high TRL developments from R&D to manufacturing
• You will be setting up lab experimental programs of standard to high complexity with focus on developments in bio-based materials (mainly cellulose based).

Required qualifications:

• You have a Master degree (equivalent or higher) in natural sciences, (bio-) material science, engineering or related subjects.
• You bring at least 3-5 years’ experience in project management related to packaging and/or paper, lignocellulosic material.
• You are an “out of the box” thinker with an entrepreneurial spirit and you have leadership qualities.
• You can easily build partnerships and work collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives
• You have excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal

Hybrid and flexible:

At Sappi we believe in a flexible approach between office and remote work toward business, team and individual needs, enhancing more flexibility, trust and individual accountability.

Location:

This job is located in Maastricht.

Traveling:

It is expected to have some traveling (5-15%) to the locations of group.

What we offer:

• A position for 32-40 hours a week.
• An excellent opportunity to work, learn & grow with us. With our culture of learning & development, you can access thousands of online training
• A multicultural & international environment to share and collaborate with colleagues from more than 68 nationalities in 31 locations globally.
• A unique opportunity to join a global wood fiber solution company. We are constantly innovating toward a circular economy working to achieve our sustainability goals & reduce our carbon footprint.

Your benefits:

• Attractive remuneration and benefits package
• Friendly atmosphere and team-work oriented culture
• Work-life balance

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion:

D&I is a key strategic component and enabler for us to unlock the full potential of our diverse talent and encourage diversity of thought, to promote successful collaboration and innovation. Embedding inclusion in our culture is helping us develop a positive employee experience where everyone at Sappi feels valued and engaged, with our stakeholders recognizing us as a trusted partner.
All qualified applicants will be considered for employment, regardless of their race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, pregnancy, neurodiversity, disability, or any other aspect that makes them unique.

Ready to be a part of our transformative journey? Apply now and join us in reshaping the future of sustainable innovation at Sappi.