Senior Scientist, Product and Analytical Development

Position summary The Senior Scientist, Product and Analytical Development leads the development, characterization, and optimization of Ostara fertilizer products, raw materials, analytical methods, and supporting technical capabilities. This role combines product development, mineralogical and chemical analysis, manufacturing support, and technical commercialization to translate scientific findings into safe, practical, and scalable business solutions. The position serves as a subject matter expert in fertilizer chemistry and advanced product characterization, with particular emphasis on X-ray diffraction (XRD), process troubleshooting, product quality, and innovation. Essential functions Product and Process Development Lead bench- and pilot-scale development, screening, evaluation, and optimization of fertilizer formulations and product line extensions. Design laboratory simulations and technical studies that support scale-up, commercialization, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes. Evaluate nutrient sources, additives, process aids, and alternative raw materials for technical performance, quality, cost, and supply flexibility. Define experimental plans, acceptance criteria, technical risks, and recommendations for product and process development programs. Coordinate plant trials and convert laboratory and production results into actionable operating guidance. Analytical Sciences and Laboratory Capability Lead mineralogical, physical, and chemical characterization of raw materials, intermediates, finished products, and competitive products. Serve as the technical lead for XRD method development, instrument use, data interpretation, reference libraries, models, and user training. Develop, validate, improve, document, and maintain analytical methods, calculations, reporting tools, and laboratory SOPs. Expand internal analytical capabilities, improve data reliability and turnaround time, and coordinate external testing when specialized services are required. Apply appropriate statistical methods and sound scientific judgment to interpret results, identify trends, and communicate uncertainty. Manufacturing, Quality, and Technical Support Partner with Operations and Quality to investigate product variability, contamination, curing, caking, corrosion, scaling, dissolution, handling, and other performance issues. Use laboratory studies, production data, and plant observations to identify root causes and recommend corrective or preventive actions. Support raw-material qualification, supplier evaluation, product specifications, and technical change management. Participate in plant trials and provide recommendations that improve first-pass success, product consistency, process reliability, and safe operation. Maintain complete, accurate, and traceable technical records in accordance with company procedures. Commercialization, Innovation, and Technical Leadership Translate complex technical results into clear recommendations, presentations, product information, and decision-ready summaries for Commercial, Operations, Supply Chain, and leadership teams. Provide technical support for product launches, customer discussions, competitive benchmarking, claims support, and market differentiation. Identify and evaluate new fertilizer technologies, analytical approaches, and product concepts aligned with Ostara’s strategic priorities. Develop technical data packages supporting invention disclosures, patent activities, partnerships, and technical due diligence. Provide scientific leadership through mentoring, training, cross-functional collaboration, and the establishment of consistent technical standards. Manage multiple projects, priorities, and external relationships while meeting agreed scope, schedule, quality, and budget expectations. Required skills/abilities Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail Excellent written and verbal communication skills Able to apply knowledge and experience to provide robu…

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