The ChemQuest Group recently announced the addition of Robert G. Duan, Ph.D., as a vice president. He joins ChemQuest with over 25 years of domestic and international experience in coatings, polymers, research and development, mergers and acquisitions, technology management, and manufacturing efficiency.

Duan has held senior R&D leadership positions in Dow Chemical, Valspar, and Sherwin Williams. Across these roles, he reportedly demonstrated his strength in business partnership by increasing the efficiency of portfolio management, improving gross margins, and enhancing collaboration. Duan has shown expertise in R&D by leading diverse technical teams, managing innovation, driving technology strategies, and developing new products. In addition, he is a talented scientist and holds over 35 granted patents.  

A lifelong learner, Duan holds degrees in four different disciplines. He graduated with honors from the University of Detroit (UD) in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in chemistry. From there, he completed his master’s degree in computer science and mathematics from UD’s graduate program, receiving the graduate student of the year award. He received his doctorate in polymer chemistry from the University of Minnesota in 1997 and was given the outstanding graduate research award by Materials Research Society. In 2008, Duan finished his MBA in marketing management from Rutgers University as part of Dow Chemical’s top talent development program.

“My first experience with ChemQuest was at a PCI conference in 2014,” Duan said. “I was really impressed with the knowledge and experience of the ChemQuest team as well as their professional approach to addressing the market and client needs. I have since kept in touch with ChemQuest and am very excited to be part of this elite team.”

According to Dan Murad, ChemQuest CEO, “Robert came highly recommended by industry colleagues, and I am delighted to have him join the ChemQuest team. His experience in strategy development, technology development and M&A are very valuable to us. His experience and connections in China and Asia-Pacific will help us expand on our sustainable growing business.”

For more information, visit www.chemquest.com.