Sr. Electrolyte Scientist

Summary

Blue Current is seeking an experienced and talented Electrolyte Scientist with a passion for materials development to join our team in Hayward, California. As a hands-on member of Blue Current’s R&D team, you will be instrumental in developing next-generation solid state battery chemistries for high performance applications such as electric vehicles. The successful candidate will lead the synthesis and characterization solid state electrolytes and composites, including crystalline, glassy, and polymeric materials and collaborate across teams to study these materials in solid state batteries.

Responsibilities

• Lead materials development of solid state electrolytes
• Synthesize and characterize solid state ion transport materials and composites, including superionic conductors, single-ion conductors, and polymers
• Collaborate across functional teams to test novel and developing electrolytes in solid state batteries
• Collaborate across functional teams to study and improve the interactions between electrolyte and active materials
• Review current scientific and patent literature and incorporate new methods and materials into Blue Current’s Electrolyte R&D program
• Mentor technicians and associates in the laboratory
• Manage complex, multidisciplinary projects, ensuring deliverables are met on time and decisions are driven by data
• Participate in an active safety culture, demonstrating good chemical hygiene, and initiating and participating in risk assessments for chemical processes 

Requirements

• PhD or equivalent work experience in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering
• Minimum 4 years experience working in an industry R&D environment on the synthesis and study of materials for battery, electrolysis, or related applications.
• Deep technical knowledge of periodic inorganic materials characterization methods, including spectroscopic, thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical characterization techniques including NMR, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, DSC, TGA, EIS, CV/LSV and battery testing.
• Strong inorganic synthesis, air-free chemical synthesis and materials handling skills.
• Strong technical and interpersonal communication skills and proven ability to share impactful research results and advocate for research focus areas using data to guide decision making
• Independent and hands-on research scientist with passion for materials development

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Required to wear personal protective equipment when applicable. 
• Able to pass a respirator fit test and wear a respirator periodically.
• Able to work in office, lab, and manufacturing environment with chemicals, moving mechanical parts, and electrical hazards.

Preference 

• Demonstrated experience developing and testing crystalline or amorphous inorganic materials in an industry R&D environment.
• Experience submitting invention disclosures and supporting patent application filing and patent prosecution.
• Experience working with customers to meet demanding next-generation technology requirements.