Lead Research Scientist I, Energy AI - Electrochemical Safety Research Institute

UL Research Institutes • Rockville, MD

1d • $108,418 - $149,075 • Onsite

About The Position

We have exciting opportunities for Lead Research Scientists I, Energy AI at UL Research Institutes. We are currently recruiting for several scientist roles. While this position is currently posted at the Lead level, we welcome applications from exceptional talent whose experience, research focus and accomplishments may align with a different level within our organization. As part of the evaluation process, candidates may be considered for appointment at a higher or lower level, as appropriate. Any level determination will be based on demonstrated qualifications, expertise, leadership impact, and alignment with the scope and responsibilities of the role. Electrochemical Safety Research Institutes based in our Rockville, Maryland (D.C. metro area) research facilities. The Lead Research Scientist I leads and conducts research at the intersection of energy storage, artificial intelligence, and advanced computational science by applying scientific principles, physics-based modeling, machine/deep learning, digital twins, and high-performance computing to address complex technical challenges. This role investigates fundamental knowledge gaps, develops innovative predictive and optimization capabilities, and advances intelligent energy storage systems that improve safety, performance, and resilience through science.

Requirements

• PhD in a related discipline and 6+ years of directly related post-degree experience, or an equivalent combination of advanced education and relevant experience.
• Demonstrated fundamental knowledge and independent thinking of electrochemical engineering, energy storage, and safety science.
• Demonstrated independent problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills required.
• Advanced instrument design, installation, programming, and data analysis skills.
• Ability to collaborate with peers and work with team members in order to complete a project from start to finish.
• Ability to serve as lead author on high-impact papers and reports.

Responsibilities

• Leads and conducts energy-storage research projects focused on safety by applying scientific principles and concepts that are critical to advancing ESRI's mission of advancing safer energy storage systems through science.
• Investigates technical challenges at the intersection of energy storage and artificial intelligence: how to build intelligent digital twins that connect physical energy systems with AI, enabling them to learn, predict, optimize, and interact with the real world.
• Applies knowledge of electrochemistry, energy systems, physics-based modeling, ML/DL, control systems, data science, digital twins, and high-performance computing to research activities. Exercises sound scientific judgment in evaluating research findings and developing innovative approaches to complex energy storage challenges.
• Maintains awareness of emerging tools, safety research, regulatory developments, and scientific advances by reading the literature and attending academic conferences.
• Plans, designs, and executes battery safety scenarios to evaluate hazards, validate findings, and support research objectives.
• Collaborate with outside research partners.
• Participates in associations and research/stakeholder organizations
• Develops and leads AI-enabled energy storage research programs across the battery innovation ecosystem.
• Contributes to and/or leads other department specific and cross-functional initiatives.

Benefits

• bonus compensation
• comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans
• 401k matching structure of up to 5% of eligible pay
• an additional 4% into your retirement saving fund after your first year of continuous employment
• paid time off, including vacation, holiday, sick, and volunteer days

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree