Principal R&D Scientist

Role overview

FXI is seeking a Principal R&D Scientist to work on-site in Aston, PA, reporting to the R&D Director. This position is based in the company’s Innovation Center and focuses on advancing polyurethane foam technologies for technical and medical applications.

About FXI

FXI manufactures polyurethane foam solutions for bedding, furniture, and transportation. The company serves the growing mattress-in-a-box market and operates with a “molecules to doorstep” model that combines innovation, scale, and manufacturing reach to support both its own brands and partner brands. With headquarters, a high-tech R&D facility, and manufacturing sites across North America, FXI emphasizes innovation, performance, and customer-focused product development.

Innovation Center environment

The Aston, PA research site provides advanced analytical and processing equipment for work in polyurethane chemistry and foam technology. In this setting, the selected scientist will lead important projects, contribute to technical and medical-grade foam development, and act as a subject-matter expert and mentor within the organization.

What the role involves

The Principal R&D Scientist will own development work across the full lifecycle of new materials, starting with concept and formulation design and continuing through testing, scale-up, and commercial launch. The work will involve applying polymer science, materials expertise, and chemistry knowledge to create new polyurethane foam products. The role also requires partnership with business leaders, manufacturing teams, and cross-functional colleagues in sales and marketing to help expand FXI’s product range and market opportunities.

Key responsibilities

Core duties include leading formulation innovation, building test approaches for unusual use cases, guiding transfer from lab to production, and communicating scientific findings clearly to both internal and external audiences.

Requirements and qualifications

The ideal background includes a Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Science, or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree and 10 years of experience may also be considered. The role calls for at least 5 years of experience in polymer formulation development or a related area. Strong knowledge of polymer chemistry, structure-property relationships, and preferably polyurethanes is important. Experience with medical-grade materials, regulatory expectations, technical service, application development, test method validation, and manufacturing scale-up is preferred. Strong communication, collaboration, multi-project management, and computer skills are also needed.

Compensation and benefits

FXI offers a competitive salary along with a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; basic and optional life insurance; short- and long-term disability; a 401(k) plan with company match; tuition assistance; and flexible spending accounts.

Equal opportunity and work authorization

FXI is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics under federal, state, or local law. The company welcomes applicants who are authorized to work in the United States and is unable to provide visa sponsorship.

Agency notice

FXI is not seeking unsolicited help from search firms for this opening. The company asks that no phone calls or emails be made regarding this role. Resumes sent without a valid written search agreement are considered the property of FXI, and no placement fee will be paid if a candidate is hired through such a referral.