Research Scientist, Polymers and Computational Modeling
HRLMalibu, California
Full Time
Posted October 29, 2025
$141k - $176k
Not Specified
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Job Description
A Research Scientist in Polymers and Computational Modeling at HRL develops and performs chemical syntheses, material processing, and analytical testing to create advanced polymeric and inorganic materials, leveraging computational techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration to drive innovation from fundamental research to commercial applications.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform chemical reactions and polymerizations at benchtop-scale and beyond.
- Develop material processing techniques to produce functional materials, films, and coatings.
- Operate and interpret results from analytical tools such as DSC, FTIR, UV-VIS, NMR, rheometry, SEM, and TGA.
- Document, analyze, and report experimental results to the project manager.
- Advance research toward a Principal Investigator role in polymer-focused areas.
- Balance research and development priorities with program execution goals.
- Maintain laboratory stocks, monitor calibration of lab instruments, and ensure laboratory upkeep.
Requirements
- Experience working across scientific disciplines, being a member of or leading teams with various subject matter experts.
- Experience in a wet chemistry lab environment, specifically in organic chemistry or polymer synthesis, compounding elastomers and/or coating formulations, and/or hands-on composite fabrication.
- Experience synthesizing chemical compounds in a research environment and a record of good lab practice documentation and safety procedures.
- Experience with the operation and interpretation of analytical tools such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy (UV-VIS), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), rheometry, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA).
- Experience with computational techniques such as molecular dynamics is highly desired.
- Proficiency in computer software for data storage, organization, and analysis.
- Knowledge of chemical analysis, thermal analysis, optical characterization, and basic computer skills including spreadsheets and word processing.
- A minimum of a Master’s degree with 4 years of industry experience or a Doctoral degree (PhD) is required.
- Must be able to perform safely in a laboratory environment using materials synthesis and analysis equipment, including good laboratory practices, documentation, and safe handling of chemicals.
- U.S. Person status as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required, which includes U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees.
- Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance is desired.
Benefits & Perks
Compensation/salary range: 140,700 - 175,900 USD
Bonus benefits
Work environment with laboratory safety practices
Opportunities for career advancement toward Principal Investigator role
Potential for security clearance (desirable but not guaranteed)
Ready to Apply?
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