Philipp Kilian

Engineering the Materials of Tomorrow | High-Performance Polymers · Defense · Dental & Implant Innovation

Darmstadt, Hesse, Germany

About

I am a Senior R&D Leader with 15+ years of expertise in high-performance polymers and advanced composite materials — bridging fundamental research with industrial application across demanding sectors. My core focus areas: High-performance polymers — PEEK, Polyimide, POM, PA, — from material design to tribological and mechanical characterization Medical & Dental Applications — PEEK-based implant materials, biocompatible composites, and tribological systems for orthopedic and dental use Defense & Aerospace — Radar-absorbing materials (RAS), stealth composites, structural polymers compliant with EN 9001. Throughout my career I have led cross-functional R&D teams, driven university-industry partnerships, and translated emerging material concepts into market-ready solutions — from customer-facing application development to strategic technology roadmaps. I combine deep technical expertise with a strong commercial mindset, having worked at the interface of R&D, business development, and key account management in specialty materials environments.

Experience

  • Evonik (Full-time · 17 yrs 10 mos)
    • Director R&D Medical and Industrial PEEK
      Nov 2024 - Present · 1 yr 8 mos

    • Head of Tribology Development
      Oct 2020 - Present · 5 yrs 9 mos

    • Projektmanager Polymer Tribology
      Nov 2016 - Oct 2020 · 4 yrs