Geochemistry Lab Research Scientist

Thunderstone•San Francisco, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Thunderstone is a deep-tech startup focused on revolutionizing critical mineral access through innovative in-situ mining methods. We are developing techniques that utilize high-voltage electrical stimulation to extract metals with significantly reduced energy consumption, water usage, and environmental impact. Our research spans geoscience, chemistry, and applied physics, with ongoing laboratory work in ore permeability, fluid flow, and electrically driven metal extraction. We are seeking a Research Scientist (MS or PhD level) to contribute to hands-on experimental development, data analysis, and technical discussions across our core R&D programs. This role is ideal for an early-career scientist eager to engage directly with experiments and physical systems, rather than a purely theoretical or managerial position. You will collaborate closely with senior scientists and engineers, playing a key role in experimental execution, interpretation, and iteration within a dynamic applied R&D setting. This is a substantive role with significant ownership over experiments and input into technical decision-making, not an intern or technician position.

Requirements

MS or PhD / equivalent in Geoscience, Geochemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
Hands-on laboratory experience executing physical experiments.
Strong comfort working with experimental data and drawing conclusions from imperfect datasets.
Ability to reason across disciplines (chemistry, physics, geology).
Clear written and verbal technical communication skills.
Willingness to work primarily on-site in a laboratory environment.
Self awareness, sense of humor, and overall good human :)

Nice To Haves

Experience with mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, electrochemistry, or porous media.
Familiarity with electrical measurements or experimental hardware.
Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data analysis and visualization.
Experience in a startup, pilot-scale lab, or applied R&D setting.

Responsibilities

Support the design, execution, and iteration of laboratory experiments related to in-situ metal recovery and leaching, fluid flow through ore matrices, electrical stimulation of geological materials, and materials and mineral characterization.
Collect, process, and analyze experimental data, including flow rates, electrical measurements, and chemistry results.
Generate plots, summaries, and technical write-ups to guide experimental direction.
Participate in troubleshooting and interpretation discussions to help guide next experiments.
Collaborate closely with engineers and scientists on experimental planning and system improvements.
Support technical documentation for internal reports, grants, and partner communications.