Synthetic Chemist - Ion Exchange Membrane Polymer Chem.

EnergyX•Austin, TX

About The Position

EnergyX is seeking a Synthetic Chemist to join our membrane materials team, focused on the design, synthesis, and optimization of polymer chemistries used in our ion exchange membranes (cation exchange, anion exchange, and bipolar membranes). This role owns the chemistry behind next-generation membrane formulations — from monomer and crosslinker selection through polymerization and post-functionalization — working closely with process, formulation, and stack engineering teams to translate lab-scale chemistry into roll-to-roll manufacturing.

Requirements

Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field, with an emphasis on synthetic/polymer chemistry (Ph.D. preferred; M.S. with significant industry experience considered).
Demonstrated hands-on experience synthesizing and characterizing ion-containing or ion-conductive polymers (e.g., ion exchange membranes, fuel cell membranes, battery separators, or related ionomers).
Strong working knowledge of polymerization chemistry (free radical, step-growth, or controlled polymerization) and crosslinking chemistry.
Practical experience with standard polymer and membrane characterization techniques.
Understanding of structure–property relationships governing ion transport, selectivity, and chemical stability in polymeric membranes.
Ability to work safely with reactive monomers, crosslinkers, and solvents, and to follow process safety protocols in a lab environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience documenting synthesis procedures and presenting technical results to cross-functional audiences.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience with ion exchange membrane chemistry for electrodialysis, bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED/BPED), electrolysis, redox flow batteries, or fuel cells.
Experience with cloth-supported or reinforced membrane casting processes and roll-to-roll manufacturing considerations.
Experience scaling chemistry from bench to pilot or production, including troubleshooting formulation issues that arise during scale-up.
Prior involvement in patent filings or technical publications related to membrane or polymer chemistry.
Experience with lithium extraction, water treatment, carbon capture, or related separations/electrochemical process applications.

Responsibilities

Design, synthesize, and characterize novel polymer chemistries for ion exchange membranes, targeting properties such as ion exchange capacity, permselectivity, area resistance, and chemical/mechanical durability.
Develop and optimize monomer, crosslinker, and initiator systems, including selection and handling of reactive functional monomers and crosslinking chemistries appropriate for cloth-supported, roll-to-roll membrane casting.
Lead bench-scale synthesis and formulation work, and support scale-up of promising chemistries into pilot and production-scale membrane casting processes.
Characterize membranes and precursor materials using techniques such as FTIR, NMR, ion exchange capacity titration, and conductivity/permselectivity testing.
Diagnose membrane degradation mechanisms (e.g., chemical attack, oxidative degradation, fouling) observed in field or pilot operation and propose chemistry-based solutions.
Maintain documentation of synthesis routes, formulations, and experimental data; contribute to IP disclosures and patent applications.
Collaborate cross-functionally with process engineering, stack design, and commercial teams to align membrane chemistry development with customer and application requirements.
Support safe handling, storage, and disposal of reactive monomers, solvents, and crosslinking agents in accordance with process safety and EHS standards.