Materials Research Scientist

Core4ce Careers • Wpafb, OH

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Core4ce is seeking an entry-level Ph.D. scientist to support an advanced materials research and development program spanning single-crystal growth, coating deposition, and solid-state materials characterization for defense and national-security applications. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of synthetic chemistry and materials science, supporting a senior research scientist across multiple project verticals — from bulk crystal synthesis through fabricated devices and coated components. This is a hands-on, laboratory-intensive role well suited to a recent graduate who wants to build depth across materials synthesis, processing, and characterization while working alongside government and academic partners.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science & Engineering, or a closely related field (recent graduates encouraged to apply).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.
• Hands-on experience in crystal growth and/or solid-state / inorganic materials synthesis.
• Experience with one or more coating or thin-film deposition techniques.
• Working knowledge of standard materials-characterization methods (e.g., XRD, SEM/EDX, spectroscopy).
• Strong laboratory discipline, record-keeping, and technical writing skills.

Nice To Haves

• Direct experience with plasma spray deposition.
• Experience handling radioactive materials and associated radiation-safety training.
• Familiarity with extreme-environment materials (e.g., high-temperature or thermal-protection coatings) and/or radiation-detection instrumentation.
• Modeling and design tools: SolidWorks (CAD), COMSOL, DFT, and/or MCNP.
• Experience building or maintaining ultra-high vacuum and spectroscopy systems.
• Track record of peer-reviewed publications and/or collaborative research with government or academic partners.

Responsibilities

• Grow and process single crystals (including hydrothermal and other bulk crystal-growth methods) and synthesize inorganic and solid-state materials across a range of chemical systems.
• Perform coating deposition and evaluate coating quality, adhesion, and performance, including plasma spray deposition.
• Characterize materials and coatings using techniques such as XRD, SEM/EDX, and optical/electron spectroscopy; assist with data reduction and interpretation.
• Support fabrication, assembly, and testing of prototype devices and coated components.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation and, as needed, ultra-high vacuum systems.
• Coordinate and collaborate with university and business research partners on shared deliverables.
• Document experimental work and contribute technical content to program reports, white papers, and proposals.
• Follow all laboratory safety protocols, including radiation safety and safe handling of materials where applicable.
• This position is designed to be flexible, with responsibilities evolving to meet business needs and enable individual growth.

Benefits

• 401(k) with 100% company match on the first 6% deferred, with immediate vesting
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage—employee portion paid 100% by Core4ce
• Unlimited access to training and certifications, with no pre-set cap on eligible professional development
• Tuition assistance for job-related degrees and courses
• Paid parental leave, PTO that grows with tenure, and generous holiday schedules

What This Job Offers

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