Research Scientist

ADEM TECHNOLOGIES INC., operating as Advanced Energy Materials (ADEM), is an innovation-driven company focused on advanced nanomaterials for energy storage, catalysis, and desulfurization applications. Founded in 2009, ADEM has received significant federal and state SBIR funding to develop proprietary nanowire-based materials and catalysts that outperform current market solutions. The company holds an extensive patent portfolio, including exclusive licenses from the University of Louisville and additional patents on scale-up methodologies and catalyst formulations.

ADEM’s HDS catalysts and AdESulfur absorbent products deliver ultra-low sulfur performance for diesel, naptha, kerosene, alkylation feeds, and natural gas, supporting both traditional and emerging refinery processes. With commercial manufacturing, R&D, and testing facilities, ADEM customizes drop-in solutions for customer-specific conditions and operates pilot skid units for process validation.

The Research Scientist will lead and support experimental R&D focused on nanomaterials, catalysts, and absorbent technologies for desulfurization and related refining applications. This full-time, on-site role in the San Antonio, Texas Metropolitan Area involves designing and executing laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and optimizing formulations and process conditions for pilot and commercial-scale operations. The Research Scientist will collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate lab results into scalable manufacturing processes, prepare technical reports, and contribute to patent and grant applications.

Responsibilities include operating and maintaining lab and pilot equipment, ensuring adherence to safety and quality protocols, and engaging with customers and internal stakeholders to tailor solutions to specific application requirements.

• Strong background in catalysis, nanomaterials, or chemical engineering, with experience in desulfurization, refining, or related chemical processes.
• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and characterization techniques (e.g., BET, XRD, SEM/TEM, GC, LC, spectroscopy).
• Experience with scale-up from lab to pilot or commercial production, including process optimization and manufacturing support.
• Knowledge of safety, quality, and regulatory standards relevant to chemical and industrial processing environments.
• Excellent technical writing and documentation skills for reports, publications, patents, and funding proposals.
• Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Advanced degree (PhD or MS) in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field; industry or postdoctoral experience is preferred.
• Familiarity with refinery operations, adsorbent technologies, and pilot skid testing is a plus.