Research Scientist - Polymer Chemistry & Hybrid Materials

AeroVironment•Bath Township, OH

3d•$88,500 - $135,000

About The Position

The Research Scientist – Polymer Chemistry & Hybrid Materials supports research and development focused on polymer chemistry, hybrid materials, and advanced material systems. The role contributes to the synthesis, preparation, processing, and characterization of polymer-based and hybrid materials for developing and evaluating new materials and technologies. Working under the guidance of senior scientists and technical leads, the Research Scientist conducts laboratory experiments, follows established research methods, analyzes results, and documents findings. The position collaborates with multidisciplinary teams, supports ongoing research initiatives, troubleshoots routine experimental challenges, and contributes to developing and optimizing material formulations and processing techniques. The work takes place in a laboratory and research environment and involves handling chemicals, preparing material samples, and operating laboratory instruments and research equipment in accordance with applicable safety requirements. Occasional collaboration with other laboratories, engineering, or manufacturing teams may be required. The role requires eligibility to access ITAR/EAR-controlled information as a U.S. person or a person approved for an export license; some positions may require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.

Requirements

Graduate degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related scientific or engineering discipline, including laboratory research or industry experience in chemistry, polymer science, materials science, or a related field.
Experience conducting laboratory experiments, preparing samples, collecting data, and documenting experimental results.
Experience with laboratory safety practices, chemical handling, and proper use of laboratory equipment.
Ability to follow established experimental procedures, interpret technical instructions, and identify routine experimental issues.
Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate and organized laboratory records.
Effective written, verbal, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Eligibility to access ITAR/EAR-controlled information as a U.S. person or a person approved for an export license; some positions may require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with analytical and characterization techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), or other relevant methods.
Exposure to materials processing, coating development, surface modification, or structure-property relationships.
Experience with laboratory data analysis, scientific reporting, and technical presentations.
Familiarity with laboratory quality practices, standard operating procedures, and safe chemical handling.
Foundational understanding of polymer chemistry, materials science, and experimental research principles.
Ability to execute defined research tasks and laboratory experiments with appropriate supervision.
Ability to recognize inconsistencies in experimental results and escalate non-routine technical issues.
Basic data analysis and scientific interpretation skills.
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage assigned laboratory tasks and priorities.
Ability to communicate technical findings clearly to scientific and nontechnical audiences.
Commitment to laboratory safety, research integrity, teamwork, and continuous learning.

Responsibilities

Conduct laboratory experiments involving polymer chemistry, polymer synthesis, material formulation, and hybrid material preparation using established procedures and research methods.
Assist with developing, preparing, and evaluating polymer-based materials, composites, and hybrid material systems.
Perform routine laboratory procedures related to material synthesis, sample preparation, processing, purification, and testing.
Characterize materials using appropriate analytical and laboratory techniques to evaluate chemical composition, physical properties, morphology, thermal behavior, and performance.
Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data to identify trends, evaluate results, and support research objectives.
Assist with optimizing material formulations, reaction conditions, and processing parameters under the direction of senior scientists.
Troubleshoot routine experimental issues and communicate unexpected results, deviations, and technical challenges to the appropriate technical lead.
Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, experimental records, technical reports, and research documentation in accordance with established procedures.
Prepare materials, samples, data summaries, and presentations to communicate experimental progress and findings to project teams.
Collaborate with scientists, engineers, technicians, and other cross-functional team members to support research and development activities.
Follow established laboratory safety procedures and applicable environmental, health, and safety requirements.
Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, and work areas to support safe and efficient research operations.
Perform other related duties as assigned.