Research Scientist

Pittsburgh Glass Works • Cheswick, PA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

As a recognized technical expert within their discipline, the successful candidate will work both independently and collaboratively to conceive, plan, and execute exploratory research focused on translating novel concepts into commercially viable products and devices. The role emphasizes hands‑on scientific leadership across materials, processes, and device performance.

The scientist will apply deep expertise in electrochemical processes and electro‑optical systems, using complementary characterization and analytical techniques to develop a rigorous understanding of material behavior and device function. Responsibilities include conducting high‑quality scientific research; preparing clear, evaluative reports; and making data‑driven recommendations to advance, redirect, or discontinue research efforts as appropriate.

This role contributes to the planning and recommendation of major research and engineering programs aligned with long‑term business and technology objectives. The position may also serve as a technical advisor in cross‑functional, high‑level research, product development, and strategic planning activities. Experience with intellectual property review and evaluation is required.

Requirements

• M.S. degree with 7+ years of relevant experience, or Ph.D. with 3+ years of relevant experience.
• Advanced expertise in chemistry with emphasis in one or more of the following areas: organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, chemical synthesis, or chemical engineering.
• Demonstrated experience applying this expertise to electrochemistry, electro‑optic systems, and/or liquid‑crystal‑based materials or devices.
• Proven ability to initiate, design, and execute technically significant experimental and/or theoretical work.
• Track record of contributing original research that advances long‑term research, product development, or engineering programs.

Responsibilities

• Apply advanced scientific and engineering principles to design, execute, and interpret experimental and analytical work.
• Independently develop innovative technical solutions and contribute original ideas that advance products, processes, or enabling technologies.
• Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams to integrate solutions into system‑level designs and applications.
• Maintain strong technical rigor through sound experimental design, data analysis, and problem‑solving methodologies.
• Support the scale-up and transfer of laboratory-developed processes to pilot and manufacturing environments.
• Communicate complex technical concepts and results clearly and concisely to audiences with varying levels of technical expertise.
• Prepare high‑quality technical documentation, including experimental reports, data summaries, and interpretive analyses.
• Foster an environment of open, collaborative communication across research, engineering, and adjacent functions.
• Provide technical input and recommendations to support project and business decision‑making.
• Lead and significantly contribute to planning, organizing, and executing research and development projects aligned with program objectives.
• Work with project leaders and management to assess technical progress, risks, and priorities, recommending adjustments as needed.
• Manage assigned project timelines and resources to ensure alignment with technical goals and business needs.
• Provide technical leadership within projects, serving as a subject‑matter expert in assigned domains.
• Mentor and coach junior scientists or engineers through technical guidance, knowledge sharing, and informal training.
• Contribute to the identification and initiation of new research directions, products, processes, or technical capabilities.
• Engage with external collaborators, suppliers, or technical organizations as needed to support project objectives.
• Contribute technical input to safety assessments and best practices for experimental work.
• Deliver effective technical presentations to internal audiences, including project teams, management, and cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Participate in technical reviews, design discussions, and knowledge‑sharing forums to disseminate results and lessons learned.
• Demonstrate a strong, proactive commitment to laboratory and workplace safety.
• Follow and help reinforce established safety, health, and environmental practices, particularly related to new materials, chemistries, or processes.

What This Job Offers

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