Material Science Director

We are seeking a Research fellow, Materials Science & Chemistry to lead the discovery, development, and processing of next‑generation solid electrolyte materials for advanced battery systems. This role will help define the next‑gen solid electrolyte materials strategy, drive hands‑on research, and lead a high‑performing technical team in a fast‑paced research environment.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in solid‑state ionics and materials chemistry, along with the ability to translate fundamental materials innovation into scalable, commercially viable solutions.

• Lead the design, synthesis, and optimization of solid electrolyte materials (e.g., oxyhalides, sulfides, oxides, or hybrid systems).
• Drive understanding of ionic transport mechanisms, electrochemical stability, and mechanical properties relevant to solid‑state batteries.
• Lead interfacial chemistry strategy, including solid electrolyte–electrode compatibility, interfacial charge transport, and mitigation of degradation mechanisms.
• Establish and oversee leading edge materials characterization using techniques such as XRD, SEM/TEM, Raman/IR, XPS, impedance spectroscopy, and thermal/mechanical analysis.
• Guide materials development from lab‑scale synthesis through pilot‑scale and manufacturing‑relevant processes.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary materials and chemistry project team.
• Foster a rigorous, data‑driven, and results‑oriented research culture.
• Set clear goals, timelines, and accountability across multiple work streams.
• Encourage intellectual curiosity while maintaining focus on outcomes and deliverables.

• Collaborate closely with electrochemistry, cell engineering, mechanical design, and process development teams to ensure seamless integration of solid electrolytes into full cells.
• Support technical diligence with strategic partners, customers, and investors.
• Contribute to customer‑facing and external technical discussions as needed.

• Drive invention disclosures and contribute to IP strategy related to solid electrolyte compositions, processing, and interfaces.
• Maintain keen awareness of competitive, academic, and patent landscapes in solid‑state battery materials.
• Establish and manage external collaborations with suppliers, academic groups, and research institutions.

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Deep expertise in solid‑state ionics and solid electrolyte materials.
• Strong experimental background in synthesis and characterization of inorganic electrolytes.
• 10+ years of experience (post doc) in advanced battery materials or solid‑state materials R&D.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex research programs.

• Experience with solid‑state battery cell integration and interfacial engineering.
• Exposure to scale‑up, pilot manufacturing, or materials process development.
• Prior experience in a startup or early‑stage technology environment.
• Knowledgeable in IP generation and patent strategy in materials‑intensive technologies.

This position requires employees to work onsite 5 days per week to meet the minimum essential duties and requirements of this position. As an on‑site R&D and manufacturing operations organization, in‑person face‑to‑face interaction is essential to building authentic relationships, trust, teamwork, and collaboration.

Expected salary range for this role is from $187,600 to $262,600, and a final salary will be determined by the candidate's experience and educational background. Quantum Scape also offers an annual bonus and a generous RSU/Equity package as part of its compensation plan. In addition, we do offer a tremendous benefits plan including employee paid health care, Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and other benefits.