Materials Research Associate

Luna Labs is a product development company working with leading organizations and key government agencies to create unique solutions for complex challenges in defense, industrial, and healthcare markets. We operate like a self-contained incubator for defense and biotech startups, taking solutions from concept through development to new products in the market. We leverage small business agility and large business capabilities to accelerate breakthrough solutions from concept to early-stage growth.

Working with a robust global network of manufacturers, suppliers, licensees, and distributors, Luna Labs develops everything from small-scale prototypes to market-ready products.

Luna Labs is seeking a creative and motivated Materials Research Associate to contribute to fast-paced materials research and development focused on advancing both existing and emerging technologies. The position will center on expanding efforts in the formulation, processing, and testing of polymeric materials, with an emphasis on high-performance coatings, sealants, and textile systems. The ideal candidate will have a background in one or more of these areas and will be expected to build additional expertise through active participation in technology development, innovative idea generation, and rigorous experimental design and execution.

The role will involve hands‑on laboratory work across a range of currently funded programs and will contribute to establishing and supporting new materials R&D initiatives.

• Conduct laboratory experiments and procedures, including thermal, physical, and analytical testing and characterization of materials
• Maintain, calibrate, and operate laboratory instrumentation and equipment to ensure reliable performance and data quality
• Record, manage, summarize, and interpret experimental data; support timely technical reporting and, when appropriate, assist in the development of new methodologies under supervision
• Support early‑stage product development activities, including literature reviews, sourcing equipment and materials, and assembling prototype systems for ongoing research efforts
• Prepare clear, concise technical documentation and summaries, including analysis and interpretation of experimental results
• Maintain complete and accurate laboratory notebooks in accordance with established documentation practices
• Promote and adhere to laboratory and office safety protocols and best practices
• Apply appropriate tools and technologies to execute project tasks and solve routine technical challenges
• Support the transition of technologies into product concepts, prototype designs, and potential commercialization pathways

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
• Prior experience conducting laboratory-based research
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative R&D environment
• Strong capability to work independently as well as effectively within multidisciplinary teams
• High level of attention to detail and strong commitment to quality experimental work and documentation
• Excellent communication skills, including technical writing, data analysis, and interpersonal collaboration
• Demonstrated ability and interest in understanding technical approaches within the context of end‑use applications
• Capacity to manage and contribute to multiple concurrent research programs
• U.S. Citizenship is required due to government contracting regulations

• No
• The role involves working onsite and in a laboratory environment and interacting with technical staff.
• Occasional travel between company locations, client sites, conferences, and related events is required.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 100lbs may be required.
• Duties may occasionally be completed remotely using secure company equipment and software, at the supervisor's discretion.

• Salary Range: $70,000 -- $80,000 annually (depending on experience)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Opportunities for professional development and continued education
• Collaborative, innovation-focused work culture