R&D Salt Qualification Scientist​/Engineer

Interested in helping us transform thermal and electric energy? Join us at Terrestrial Energy, a US developer of advanced Generation IV nuclear reactors. We are building a small modular nuclear plant to deliver cost‑competitive, clean heat and power to industry.

The Salt Qualification Scientist/Engineer, under the direction of the R&D Director, is responsible for leading the experimental testing and qualification of salts for Integral Molten Salt Reactor (IMSR) applications. The role focuses on designing and implementing rigorous test programs, conducting hands‑on laboratory experiments, and performing detailed data analysis to characterize the properties and behavior of salts used in the reactor.

• Design and implement experimental programs to characterize molten salt properties for IMSR applications, focusing on material testing, chemical analysis, and long‑term performance under reactor conditions.
• Develop and execute test procedures for thermophysical, chemical, and performance measurements that meet reactor specifications and provide reliable data for reactor qualification.
• Conduct laboratory experiments to measure critical salt properties, including thermal stability, chemical reactivity, corrosion resistance, and long‑term performance. Operate experimental equipment and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Analyze experimental data using statistical tools such as JMP, MATLAB, and Python, including uncertainty quantification, regression analysis, and data validation. Develop models and correlations to support salt qualification and performance predictions.
• Oversee quality control for all testing activities, ensuring proper documentation, traceability, and compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., NRC, DOE). Maintain laboratory safety standards in line with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).
• Prepare technical reports and qualification documents to support regulatory submissions, including responses to NRC inquiries. Present findings to regulatory bodies during audits and meetings.
• Work closely with reactor design engineers to align test programs with reactor specifications. Collaborate with materials engineers, chemistry teams, and other technical teams to support corrosion, compatibility, and performance studies.
• Continuously evaluate and improve test methods, experimental setups, and data analysis techniques to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of salt testing programs.
• Support procurement and vendor qualification processes for salt materials and related supplies.
• Manage testing schedules, resources, and priorities to meet project milestones. Provide regular updates to the R&D Director and project teams.
• Provide technical guidance to junior scientists or engineers, assisting with testing and characterization activities.
• Present experimental results and testing approaches to internal teams, external stakeholders, and regulatory agencies.

• Experimental Design
• Materials Testing and Chemical Characterization
• Statistical Data Analysis
• Regulatory Compliance
• Technical Writing and Reporting
• Team Collaboration
• Laboratory Skills
• Clear Communication

• Master's degree or higher in Physical Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related technical field.
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in experimental research and materials testing, focusing on chemical characterization in high‑temperature or molten salt environments.
• Strong understanding of physical chemistry, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics as applied to molten salts and reactor materials.
• Practical experience with molten salt chemistry, including corrosion and reactivity studies in high‑temperature systems.
• Expertise in experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis (e.g., regression, uncertainty quantification).
• Proficiency with data analysis tools such as JMP, Python, and MATLAB for analyzing complex experimental data and developing models.
• Hands‑on experience with thermophysical, chemical, and performance measurements of materials.
• Knowledge of high‑temperature experimental techniques, analytical chemistry, and data acquisition systems (e.g., LIMS).
• Familiarity with laboratory safety,…