Meet Pengcheng (Simon) Yang, Senior Chemist Innovative Research (Wageningen, The Netherlands)
Why did you choose to join the Chemicals industry?
Actually, immediately after completing my PhD, I was not quite sure what kind of career I would like to pursue. The choice is either to progress toward an academic career or to work in the chemicals industry. Nevertheless, I took a 2-year post-doc researcher position to start. Gradually, I figured out that I prefer to do researches that eventually will lead to real products, and hopefully such products can improve the lives of others. Therefore, I decided that I am more suited to working in industrial chemicals instead.
How did you choose your University of choice?
I was born and raised in China. After finishing high school in China, I took a scholarship that led to a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at the University of Sheffield, UK. Following that, I did my Master’s degree in Polymer Chemistry at the same institution. During this period, I got an opportunity to conduct my research project in a well-known polymer chemistry research group, led by Prof Steven. P Armes, FRS (Fellows of the Royal Society). The success of my master’s degree project really gave me the motivation to do research, so I stayed in Steve’s group to pursue my PhD.
How did you start at allnex?
I joined the company in March 2016 when the Corporate Innovation Group (CIG) wanted to hire a Senior Chemist to lead an innovation project for Powder Coating Resins (PCR). I was initially based in a PCR unit located in Silvertown, London, but also frequently worked in the CIG lab in Wageningen, the Netherlands. In 2018, I was permanently relocated to Wageningen.
What is your development story, where are you now? What helped you get there?
I am now the project leader working on developing a new platform technology used for powder coating. It is a truly innovative technology that the powder coating market has never seen before, and we expect this technology to solve many current limitations in powder coating, such as high curing temperature and poor appearance. After years of research, we have successfully developed a series of prototypes that allow us provide samples. Our customers showed great interest on the technology and they are actively testing the prototype products.
I think the initial success of the technology showed allnex’s strong expertise in resin technology and focus on innovation. Our global presence and strong network in the business also enables us to promote the technology rapidly and internationally.
How would you describe your experience working at allnex?
I really enjoy working at allnex. My current job is challenging, but also with a large degree of responsibility which helps me continue to grow.
What keeps you in the company?
I like the dynamics, innovation and international working environment that allnex provides. Also, I am so glad I have the opportunity to work with many highly skilled professionals in the company.