Senior Scientist in Sunnyvale

Job Description

Our client, a biomining startup focused on increasing copper recovery from low‑grade sulfide ores via chemical additives, is in search of a Geochemist SME to join the team in greater Bay Area, CA.

This role will own mineral geochemistry workflows for copper/iron/sulfur systems, help run lab‑to‑pilot‑scale column/heap experiments and modelling, and support delivering time‑sensitive pilot deliverables with external partners.

• Complete geochemical characterization for at least two ore types; finish small‑scale high‑throughput screening of current pilot project sample

• Scale from high‑throughput screening system successfully leads to lab‑scale experiments

• Successful transfer to pilot scale (larger lab metallurgical columns) with a partner

• Lead mineral geochemistry characterization of real‑world ore samples across lab→pilot scales
• Specialize in (Cu‑Fe‑S) with particular focus on speciation
• Support with running high‑throughput screening and lab column experiments; operate across lab and pilot setups
• Geochemical data analysis and modelling (translate results into process parameters)
• Liaise with cross‑disciplinary internal team (biology, chemistry, process engineers) and external partners/clients; deliver projects on time
• Own hands‑on lab execution with autonomy; prepare materials for pilots and field transfer
• Develop and apply a broad range of advanced analytical techniques (including ICP‑OES, ion chromatography, microwave digestion, etc.)
• Interact directly with external partners, hydrometallurgy experts, and pilot clients
• Deliver projects on time in an industrial setting

• PhD + 2 years of industry experience or MS + 6 years of industry experience.
• Minimum 2 years delivering projects in an industrial setting (real world industry experience vs purely academic environments).
• Demonstrable mineral geochemistry expertise (geology/ores/mining focus) — non‑planetary geochemistry emphasis.
• Technical depth in copper/iron/sulfur systems;
  sulfur speciation knowledge required
  .
• Experience with advanced analytical techniques (ICP, ion chromatography, microwave digestion, speciation analysis, etc.).
• Proficiency with geochemical modelling software (Geochemist's Workbench).
• Strong cross‑disciplinary communication; hands‑on, proactive, able to operate autonomously in a small team.
• Ability to work full‑time onsite.