Computational Polymer Scientist
About The Position
AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a self-motivated Research Scientist to join a collaborative, multidisciplinary team supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The role involves theoretical and computational research on the dynamics and rheology of covalent adaptable polymer networks tailored for critical Department of War applications. The scientist will work across chemistry, physics, and computer science, collaborating with experimentalists and academic partners to translate molecular-level design into macroscopic material predictions in support of established research objectives, with guidance from senior technical staff as needed.
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship is required for work within a government facility.
- Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, polymer science, or a closely related field.
- Theoretical background in polymer physics and polymer networks.
- Hands-on experience executing and analyzing molecular dynamics simulations.
- Strong Python programming proficiency for code development.
- Demonstrated critical problem-solving skills and a research track record through publications.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills for active cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Nice To Haves
- PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, polymer science, or a closely related field.
- Experience with GPU-accelerated computing frameworks such as CUDA, CuPy, or GPU-enabled LAMMPS.
- Familiarity with molecular dynamics packages such as LAMMPS, GROMACS, HOOMD-blue, or ESPResSo.
- Prior experience modeling dynamic or reversible covalent chemistries, such as vitrimers or self-healing polymers.
Responsibilities
- Investigate the structural dynamics, viscoelasticity, and rheological properties of dynamic covalent adaptable networks.
- Develop and implement custom Python-based software and algorithms for GPU-accelerated rheology predictions, applying established computational approaches and modifying existing methods as needed.
- Use molecular dynamics simulations and theoretical polymer physics frameworks to model network behavior.
- Coordinate with experimental chemists, materials scientists, and academic collaborators to integrate computational results with experimental findings.
- Support project milestones, present findings to stakeholders, and draft technical reports and peer-reviewed publications with senior researchers and project team members.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- 401(k) with company matching.
- 9/80 work schedule.
- Paid holiday shutdown.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
