Sr. Manager, R&D

Senior Manager Of R&D

A123 Systems, LLC is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced batteries and battery systems for the transportation and commercial markets. We are seeking a highly experienced and innovative Senior Manager of R&D with deep expertise in cathode materials for next-generation rechargeable batteries, including Mn-rich NMC, Li-rich layered oxides, Lithium-Sulfur (Li-S), and Sodium-ion cathode chemistries. This role will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the design, development, and optimization of advanced cathode materials, with a strong focus on translating lab-scale innovations into practical, electrode and cell technologies.

This role is critical in advancing the company's core technology roadmap, particularly in the areas of cathode material innovation with surface/interface design for electrolyte and anodes. The ideal candidate will bring deep scientific expertise, a proven track record of innovation, and strong leadership in battery materials research and development.

Primary Responsibilities

• Technology Development & Strategic Planning
• Lead R&D projects focused on advanced energy storage chemistries, including Li-S and sodium-ion batteries and next generation battery technology such as Mn-rich layered oxides
• Lead design and development of next-generation cell material (e.g., cathode, electrolyte, separator, anode interface) and electrode/cell design.
• Drive innovation in cathode material and surface/interface engineering for anode for Li-S, sodium-ion batteries and next generation battery technology.
• Define short- and long-term R&D goals aligned with company strategy.
• Develop technology roadmaps and project plans with clear milestones and deliverables.
• Team Leadership
• Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary R&D team including scientists, engineers, and technicians.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance research environment.
• Engage with external collaborators including academic institutions, research labs, and strategic partners.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams in scale-up, and cell development
• Data Analysis & Reporting
• Oversee data collection, modeling, and interpretation to drive material and performance optimization.
• Present research findings and progress reports to executive leadership and stakeholders.
• IP Generation & Publication
• Identify opportunities for intellectual property and support patent filings.
• Publish key findings in peer-reviewed journals and represent the company at technical conferences.

Specific Skills / Background

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. (Exceptional M.S. candidates with significant experience will also be considered.)
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in next generation battery R&D, with 5+ years in a leadership or managerial role.
• Proven expertise in: next-gen cathode material such as Li-S and sodium-ion systems
• High knowledge and experience in electrode and cell development
• Strong background in electrochemical testing & analysis, materials characterization, and cell prototyping.
• Demonstrated success in leading research teams and delivering innovative results
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills.
• Familiarity with scale-up considerations from lab to pilot production.
• Knowledge of IP strategy and patent processes.
• Strong communication and project management skills

Additional comments about position:
Initiation, responsibility, attention to details and comprehensive analysis are essential; team-player with a positive attitude and the ability to operate with minimal direct supervision is a major plus. A123 is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer