Research Scientist III - Electrochemical Safety Research Insitute

Job Overview

Research Scientist III – Electrochemical Safety Research Institute (ESRI), UL Research Institutes, Houston, TX.The role focuses on designing, executing, and analyzing experiments related to battery and energy‑storage safety, developing theoretical models, and preparing technical reports. The scientist works closely with ULRI leaders, academic partners, and industry stakeholders to advance knowledge in electrochemical safety.

• Design and conduct experiments on energy‑storage safety science, with emphasis on lithium‑ion batteries, other chemistries, and hydrogen systems.
• Plan, execute, and document experimental procedures; analyze test data to identify trends and develop solutions.
• Apply engineering, systems, and safety science concepts to formulate, evaluate, and correlate broad research concepts.
• Serve as a point of contact for research projects, collaborating with partners, guiding knowledge transfer, and coordinating with academic teams.
• Present research findings internally and at conferences, workshops, and other professional forums.
• Support the development of new research proposals and grant applications.
• Perform other related duties as directed.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field, OR equivalent graduate degree with required experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of post‑degree experience (or 4 years of directly related experience) in electrochemical testing, battery safety, or related research.
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental design, electrochemical testing protocols (e.g., cycling, EIS/DCIR), battery test instrumentation, and cell teardown analysis.
• Advanced data analysis skills and ability to develop technical reports and publications.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; capable of leading author on reports and papers.
• Experience collaborating with academic teams, peers, and interdisciplinary researchers.
• Strong technical writing abilities and project leadership experience.

Salary Range: $89,602.01 – $ (annual). Competitive benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, a 401(k) plan with up to 5% matching and an additional 4% company contribution after the first year, paid time off (vacation, holiday, sick, volunteer), and flexible working arrangements where applicable.