Role Snapshot
Associate Research Scientist position with the Carbon Materials Group focused on conducting high-quality research on fiber materials and graphitic products. The role emphasizes materials processing, characterization, and advancement of energy storage applications.
Key Responsibilities: Conduct fiber spinning trials, thermal conversion processes, and systematic material characterization using advanced analytical techniques. Collaborate with team members on coal processing, pitch characterization, battery cell fabrication, and drafting research reports and manuscripts for publication.
Skills & Tools: Strong technical expertise in fiber and carbon materials processing and characterization, proficiency with analytical instruments (SEM, XRD, TGA/MS, DSC, etc.), accurate data recording and management, and demonstrated ability to write publication-quality research reports. Excellent interpersonal skills, teamwork, adaptability, and independent research capability are essential.
Qualifications: PhD preferred in materials science, chemical engineering, or related field with demonstrated publication and presentation track record. Experience in independently conducting publication-quality research and knowledge of fiber/carbon materials and composites processing are required.
Compensation: $65K–$95K/yr (estimated)
Job Description
The Carbon Materials Group is looking to hire one or more Associate Research Scientist to conduct high-quality research with emphasis on a range of fiber materials and on high value graphitic products. The successful candidate(s) will be a key team member with primary responsibilities focused on one or more of the following:
1. Fiber spinning process trials (solution and melt spinning) to produce high-quality fiber & Thermal conversion of fibers (i.e. to carbon fibers)
2. Systematic and complete characterization of materials
3. Utilization and processing of coal by liquefaction and heat treatment methods for high value graphitic materials including synthetic graphite
4. Isotropic and mesophase pitch processing and characterization
5. Advancement of new graphitic materials in energy storage with familiarity in battery cell fabrication and cycling.
In addition to materials processing, the successful candidate(s) will work closely within the respective team, and with the research group and collaborators, conducting a variety of materials characterization techniques including polarized optical microscopy, SEM, x-ray scattering, gas pycnometry, TGA/MS, DSC, DMA, Mettler DP, LFA thermal diffusivity, single filament tensile testing, dilatometry for CTE, battery cell fabrication & cycling analyses, XPS, and several additional chemical, structural, mechanical, thermal and electrical property analyses of experimental materials.
Applicants for the position will preferably have advanced education (PhD preferred) and experience in materials or chemical engineering (or related), and high priority for safety. Additionally, preferred applicants will have strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated record of teamwork, adaptability, innovation and initiative; and the ability to work well with all levels of personnel throughout CAER’s laboratories. A reliable and dedicated work ethic is expected and required. Drafting of research reports and manuscripts for publication will be part of the job.
Skills/Knowledge/Abilities
Skills/Knowledge/Abilities
Independent, disciplined researchers with a strong publication and presentation track record are preferred. Experience in independently conducting publication-quality research expediently is a critical component. Specific skills that are desired include:
1. Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials and composites processing
2. Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials characterization
3. The ability to record and keep accurate records and data
4. Knowledge of the form and style of research writing and presentation – including reporting to federal sponsors and drafting research manuscripts for publication
IEBC (Internal Employee Being Considered).