Research Scientist II - Electrochemical Safety Research Institute

Job Overview

We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Scientist II at UL Research Institutes (ULRI) Electrochemical Safety Research Institute (ESRI), based in Houston, TX. The Research Scientist II will conduct literature reviews, design and perform experiments, gather data, develop preliminary findings, and prepare written reports and presentations that support the research and development activities of ESRI. The role works closely with ESRI leaders and researchers, as well as external project collaborators, to carry out tests and analyses associated with battery energy harvesting and hybrid energy storage systems, focusing on novel materials and safety science.

• Develop and execute independent research aimed at enhancing ULRI’s thought leadership and advancing strategic objectives.
• Plan, design, and complete initial and follow‑up procedures using design of experiments (DOE) methodology to test and validate results.
• Apply extensive knowledge of engineering technology and systems engineering concepts to the specific research tasks.
• Formulate, evaluate, and correlate broad engineering research concepts and guide the analysis of unique problems, developing new and improved techniques and methods.
• Analyze data and laboratory test results to determine trends, draw data‑driven conclusions, and develop solutions.
• Conduct material synthesis, assembly/disassembly, and characterization across diverse material types, independently operate instrumentation and analyze data.
• Communicate research outcomes through reports, publications, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Serve as a key research collaborator and subject‑matter expert, supporting knowledge transfer, cross‑training, and partnership across teams.
• Stay current with the latest literature, read journals, industry news, and attend conferences.
• Assist with grant and proposal writing for funding or large‑scale instrument facility use.
• Perform other duties as directed.

• Demonstrated hands‑on battery (lithium‑ion technology and beyond) research laboratory capabilities, including glovebox and dry room technical operations.
• Experience with thin‑film flexible cells, low‑power, solid‑state, or micro‑scale energy storage systems.
• Materials synthesis (solgel, solvent, powder processing, ball‑milling, CVD, etc.), characterization (PXRD, FTIR, GC‑MS, ARC, SEM‑EDX, TGA‑DSC, rheology, moisture analysis, optical imaging), and analysis experience.
• Profile matching and Rietveld refinement expertise; familiarity with large‑scale instrument beamtime (synchrotron x‑rays, neutron) is a plus.
• Electrochemical expertise: electrode fabrication, cell fabrication (Swagelok, coin, pouch), testing protocols (cycling, rate, conductivity, EIS/ DCIR, CV) on cyclers (Arbin, Gamry, Biologic, Neware, etc.) and advanced data analysis skills; cell teardown (DPA) know‑how is a plus.
• Related modeling experience and programming knowledge (VBA, Python) are a plus.
• Excellent communication, management, and organizational skills.
• Self‑motivated, independent researcher who collaborates to complete projects within deliverable timelines and budgets.
• Strong technical report writing skills and ability to serve as lead author on reports and papers.

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science or Engineering, Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering, plus six (6) years post‑degree directly related experience.
• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science or Engineering, Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering, plus two (2) years post‑degree directly related experience.
• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science or Engineering, Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.

All employees are eligible for bonus compensation, comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans, a generous 401(k) matching structure of up to 5% of eligible pay, and an additional 4% into retirement savings after the first year of continuous employment. Flexible working arrangements may be discussed with the manager. Paid time off includes vacation, holiday, sick, and volunteer days.

UL Research Institutes is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.