Research Scientist, Polymers and Computational Modeling

General Description

The Scaled Nanotechnology department at HRL is focused on developing new, inorganic and polymeric multifunctional and responsive materials, coatings, and composites by controlling nano/micro‑scale architecture to tailor properties such as wetting, heat transfer, ice nucleation, surface adhesion, reaction thermodynamics, kinetics, color, and elasticity guided by computational modeling. We are focused on using scalable processes to rapidly mature technologies from fundamental discovery to commercial products operating at the nexus of chemistry, engineering, and physics to develop material solutions.

A successful candidate will perform chemical reactions and polymerizations at the benchtop‑scale and beyond, working both independently and on a team.

Duties may include setting up and performing chemical synthesis reactions (organic, inorganic, polymer, and organometallic chemistry), material processing development to produce functional materials, films, and coatings, along with documenting, analyzing, and reporting experimental results to the project manager.

This position involves the operation of analytical tools such as DSC, FTIR, UV‑VIS, NMR, rheometry, SEM, and TGA and interpretation of the results.

Advance toward a Principal Investigator role leading applied research in a polymer focused area; example topics include optical polymers, advanced composites; and triggerable coatings.

Effectively balance research and development priorities with program execution goals.

Effective oral and written communication, both one‑on‑one and within a team environment will be essential, along with an avid willingness to learn.

Additional duties may also include maintenance of stocks and supplies, monitoring calibration status of lab instruments, and ensuring overall laboratory upkeep.

Experience working across scientific disciplines, being a member of or leading teams with various subject matter experts is highly desired.

Experience in a wet chemistry lab environment, specifically in organic chemistry or polymer synthesis, compounding elastomers and/or coating formulations, and/or hands‑on composite fabrication is highly desired.

Experience with computational techniques such as molecular dynamics is highly desired.

Experience synthesizing chemical compounds in a research environment and a record of good lab practice (documentation, safety procedures) is essential.

Experience with the use of computer software for data storage, organization, and analysis is also desired.

Knowledge of chemical analysis, thermal analysis, optical characterization, and basic computer skills (e.g., spreadsheets & word processing).

Expected experience of MS + 4 years of industry experience, or doctoral degree (PhD).

Candidates with different experience levels may be considered for other positions.

Must be able to perform safely in a laboratory environment using materials synthesis and analysis equipment.

Requires good laboratory practice, ability to document and communicate results, and safe handling of chemicals.

U.S. Person Status .

Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance is desired.

The base salary range for this full‑time position is $140,700 - $175,900 + bonus + benefits.

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process.

Please note that the compensation details listed reflect the base salary only, and do not include potential bonus or benefits.

This position must meet export control compliance requirements. To meet export control compliance requirements, a “U.S. Person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. “U.S. Person” includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug‑free workplace and perform pre‑employment substance abuse testing.