Research Scientist, Polymers and Computational Modeling

HRL • Malibu, CA

58d

About The Position

The Scaled Nanotechnology department at HRL is focused on developing new, inorganic and polymeric multifunctional and responsive materials, coatings, and composites by controlling nano/micro-scale architecture to tailor properties such as wetting, heat transfer, ice nucleation, surface adhesion, reaction thermodynamics, kinetics, color, and elasticity guided by computational modeling. We are focused on using scalable processes to rapidly mature technologies from fundamental discovery to commercial products operating at the nexus of chemistry, engineering, and physics to develop material solutions.

Requirements

• Experience working across scientific disciplines, being a member of or leading teams with various subject matter experts is highly desired.
• Experience in a wet chemistry lab environment, specifically in organic chemistry or polymer synthesis, compounding elastomers and/or coating formulations, and/or hands-on composite fabrication is highly desired.
• Experience with computational techniques such as molecular dynamics is highly desired.
• Experience synthesizing chemical compounds in a research environment and a record of good lab practice (documentation, safety procedures) is essential.
• Experience with the use of computer software for data storage, organization, and analysis is also desired.
• Knowledge of chemical analysis, thermal analysis, optical characterization, and basic computer skills (e.g., spreadsheets & word processing).
• Expected experience of MS + 4 years of industry experience, or doctoral degree (PhD).
• Must be able to perform safely in a laboratory environment using materials synthesis and analysis equipment.
• Requires good laboratory practice, ability to document and communicate results, and safe handling of chemicals.
• U.S. Person Status .
• Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance is desired.

Responsibilities

• perform chemical reactions and polymerizations at the benchtop-scale and beyond, working both independently and on a team.
• setting up and performing chemical synthesis reactions (organic, inorganic, polymer, and organometallic chemistry), material processing development to produce functional materials, films, and coatings, along with documenting, analyzing, and reporting experimental results to the project manager.
• operation of analytical tools such as DSC, FTIR, UV-VIS, NMR, rheometry, SEM, and TGA and interpretation of the results.
• contribute to new proposals, lead technical tasks, and ultimately grow into a principal investigator role.
• Effective oral and written communication, both one-on-one and within a team environment will be essential, along with an avid willingness to learn.
• maintenance of stocks and supplies, monitoring calibration status of lab instruments, and ensuring overall laboratory upkeep.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees