Sr. R&D Leader, Product & Application

At Dow, we believe in putting people first and we’re passionate about delivering integrity, respect and safety to our customers, our employees and the planet.   Our people are at the heart of our solutions. They reflect the communities we live in and the world where we do business. Their diversity is our strength. We’re a community of relentless problem solvers that offers the daily opportunity to contribute with your perspective, transform industries and shape the future. Our purpose is simple - to deliver a sustainable future for the world through science and collaboration. If you’re looking for a challenge and meaningful role, you’re in the right place. About the Role Dow Industrial Solutions has an exciting opportunity for a Senior R&D Leader based in Collegeville, PA.   The Senior R&D Leader will lead a multidisciplinary team (13 FTEs) of researchers, specialists, technicians, and contractors supporting product and application development, primarily for the Cleaning Growth Platform, with additional support for DIS market segments such as Pharma and Crop. The role combines people leadership, safe and reliable laboratory operations, innovation portfolio management, and cross-functional execution to deliver new products, technology platforms, and sustainable business growth. The team is located in Collegeville (PA) and Midland (MI). Dow Industrial Solutions (DIS) is part of the industrial intermediates and Infrastructure (II&I) division and this role reports to the Associate R&D Director. DIS is a diverse business that serves Specialty and Intermediates segments. The focus is on 4 Growth Platforms (Cleaning, Pharma, Energy and Data Centers), in addition to serving multiple additional market segments. Key Responsibilities Lead, coach, and develop a multi-site R&D team; set priorities, allocate resources, manage performance, and foster engagement, recognition, inclusion, and knowledge sharing. Build organizational capability by attracting and retaining talent, conducting regular development discussions and one-on-one meetings, and aligning people and assignments with business strategy. Ensure safe and compliant laboratory operations in Collegeville by championing Environmental, Health & Safety policies, standards, and behaviors. Responsibility as the local DIS leader for Collegeville operations. Develop, prioritize, and manage the Home Care Cleaning R&D portfolio and relevant technology platforms, including stage-gate progression, launch timing, innovation revenue expectations, and return on innovation investment. Lead the cross-functional Cleaning Front End Team and translate business strategy into value-generating research priorities, project charters, and execution plans. Oversee project delivery against milestones and objectives, ensuring rigorous scientific methods, clear documentation, effective communication, and timely removal of roadblocks. Champion disciplined new product innovation and intellectual property strategies, including execution of appropriate patent filings. Partner globally with Product R&D, TS&D, Process R&D, EI&G R&D, Commercial, Marketing, and other functions to advance research, implementation, and commercialization. Engage customers, universities, and other external partners to support existing products and generate new growth opportunities. Assess portfolio performance, identify capability gaps, communicate recommendations, and influence alignment of goals, resources, and accountabilities. Manage operating budgets, capital plans, conference plans, and other investments needed to grow people and technical capabilities. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related scientific or engineering discipline. Minimum five years of relevant technical experience. Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage complex technical work, and collaborate across functions. Strong commitment to safe operations and responsible research practices. A minimum requirement for this U.S. based position is the ability to work legally in the United States.  No visa sponsorship/support is available for this position, including for any type of U.S. permanent residency (green card) process. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant discipline. Previous people leadership experience. Experience in cleaning technologies or a related market or technology area. Experience with innovation strategy, portfolio prioritization, stage-gate processes, and intellectual property management. Skills Strategic Leadership: The ability to set direction, align people and resources with business objectives, and drive long-term organizational success through vision, planning, and execution. Innovation Management: The ability to develop, prioritize, execute, and commercialize new technologies, products, and intellectual property to create business value. Team Management: The ability to lead, coach, develop, motivate, and manage individuals and teams to achieve organizational objectives while fostering engagement and performance. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The ability to work effectively across functions, disciplines, organizations, and external partners to achieve shared goals and accelerate results. Workplace Safety: The ability to champion safe work practices, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster a culture that prioritizes environmental, health, and safety excellence. Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Effective leadership, coaching, and interpersonal skills. Clear, concise communication and a strong record of cross-functional collaboration. Ability to influence stakeholders and align priorities, resources, and accountabilities with business objectives. Sound judgment in identifying technical and operational issues and understanding their broader organizational impact. Ability to recruit, develop, and retain high-performing technical talent. Strong