Principal Investigator, Polymer Chemistry

HRL

Malibu, California

Full Time

Posted April 22, 2026

$155k - $198k

Not Specified

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Job Description

The Principal Investigator in Polymer Chemistry will lead research and development of novel multifunctional polymers and nanostructured materials for automotive, aerospace, and defense applications, overseeing technical efforts from design to deployment, mentoring junior staff, and securing funding for innovative projects.

Key Responsibilities

Develop novel, multifunctional polymers and nanostructured materials for automotive, aerospace, and defense applications
Conceive, propose, and secure funding for new research initiatives focused on scalable, proof-of-concept polymer systems and nanostructured materials
Design, build, test, simulate, and deliver multifunctional materials or subsystem components to demonstrate performance in advanced applications
Provide technical leadership and program ownership to shape high-impact research efforts in next-generation materials
Guide funded programs, influence technical strategy, and mentor junior staff

Requirements

Demonstrated success in conceiving, writing, and securing competitive research proposals or funded programs
Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field, with a focus on the design, synthesis, and application of polymer-based materials
Strong foundation in fundamental scientific research, with a proven ability to translate concepts into applied or industry-relevant outcomes
Experience designing and synthesizing new polymer systems for mechanical, structural, and/or coatings applications, including transitioning technologies from benchtop research to manufacturing scale
Demonstrated ability to lead technical efforts, define research direction, and mentor or direct junior technical staff
Experience in experimental design, model validation, and hypothesis-driven research
Record of high-quality scientific publications and impactful technical presentations
Hands-on experience in synthetic organic and inorganic chemistry, with a strong understanding of reactive group chemistry
Deep understanding of polymer chemistry and physics
Working knowledge of polymer design, synthesis, and testing methodologies
Ability to connect theoretical principles with chemical structure property relationships to predict material behavior
Ability to operate at the intersection of fundamental science and applied engineering, with a clear focus on transitioning novel materials into practical use
Ability to originate innovative concepts and carry them through to validated, application-relevant outcomes
Work both independently and within interdisciplinary teams
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
Willingness to travel as needed