Assistant Scientist

University of South Carolina; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

University of South Carolina seeks an Assistant Scientist in the Department of Chemical Engineering to develop battery materials, test battery cells, write reports and proposals, and manage project resources and budgeting. This 12-month Staff Research Grant position emphasizes experimental work, data analysis, and communication of results.

The role requires a terminal degree (PhD or equivalent) and at least one year of post-graduate experience, with responsibilities spanning synthesis to

Qualifications

• Communicate clearly and effectively in English.
• Electrochemical data collection and analysis.
• Proposal writing.
• Publication writing.
• Budgeting.

Responsibilities

• Materials synthesis and characterization of battery materials for electrode fabrication and cell assembly.
• Cell assembly and performance testing of electrochemical cells under varied conditions.
• Data analysis and reporting of research results and preparation of sponsor deliverables.

Skills

Communicate clearly

Electrochemical data analysis

Proposal writing

Publication writing

Budgeting

Education

PhD or similar

Job description

Type of Staff Position

Staff Research Grant (SRGP)

Basis

Basis 12 months

Job Search Category

Other Professional

About USC

About University of South Carolina

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below

The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.

South Carolina Retirement

No

State Insurance Programs

Yes

Annual Leave

No

Sick Leave

Yes

Position Description

Advertised Job Summary

The Assistant Scientist in the Department of Chemical Engineering will be creating battery materials, testing battery cells, writing reports, writing proposals and managing project resources/budgeting.

Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience

• Requires a terminal degree (PhD or similar) in an area of research specialty and one year of post-graduate job-related experience.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Communicate clearly and effectively in English.
• Electrochemical data collection and analysis.
• Proposal writing.
• Publication writing
• Budgeting.

Job Duties

Job Duty

Materials Synthesis and Characterization: Synthesize and process battery materials by applying chemical, thermal, and mechanical treatments to precursor compounds, converting raw materials into functional powders for electrode fabrication and cell assembly. Prepare and integrate materials into battery electrodes and utilize advanced analytical instrumentation to characterize chemical composition, structure, and material properties, supporting research objectives and the development of energy storage technologies.

Essential Function Yes

Percentage of Time

Percentage of Time 25

Job Duty

Cell Assembly and Performance Testing: Assemble and integrate synthesized materials into functioning electrochemical cells for battery research and development. Operate cell testing systems and experimental fixtures to evaluate battery performance under simulated real-world operating conditions using a variety of electrochemical testing methods. Collect, analyze, and interpret performance data to assess cell efficiency, capacity, durability, and overall functionality, supporting the advancement and optimization of energy storage technologies.

Essential Function Yes

Percentage of Time

Percentage of Time 25

Job Duty

Data Analysis and Reporting:Analyze and interpret materials characterization and electrochemical testing data to develop an understanding of material behavior, performance, and underlying mechanisms. Prepare and coordinate technical reports, sponsor deliverables, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications that communicate research findings and project outcomes. Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams to integrate technical contributions from multiple investigators into cohesive deliverables. Review and provide feedback on scientific manuscripts, reports, presentations, and other research communications to ensure technical accuracy, quality, and consistency with project objectives.

Essential Function Yes

Percentage of Time

Percentage of Time 25

Job Duty

Proposal writing: Contribute to the development of new research concepts and strategic initiatives by leveraging findings and insights generated through sponsored research activities. Identify emerging research opportunities and assist in the preparation, writing, and submission of competitive grant proposals to industry, federal, and other funding sponsors. Support the expansion of externally funded research programs by developing technical content, collaborating with project teams, and translating research outcomes into future funding opportunities.

Essential Function Yes

Percentage of Time

Percentage of Time 20

Job Duty

Project B Budget Monitoring:Monitor project expenditures and budget performance to ensure spending remains within approved funding levels and aligns with project timelines. Track and reconcile costs related to personnel, fringe benefits, equipment, materials, and supplies, and provide financial reporting and projections to support effective grant management.

Essential Function Yes

Percentage of Time

Percentage of Time 5

Position Attributes

Hazardous weather category

Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.

Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. No

Number of Vacancies

Number of Vacancies 1

Desired Start Date

Desired Start Date 11/01/2026

Position End Date

Position End Date 10/30/2027

Job Open Date

Job Open Date 10/02/2026

Job Close Date

Job Close Date 10/12/2026

Open Until Filled

No

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, military status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable law.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Do you have at least a terminal degree (PhD or similar) in an area of research specialty and one year of post-graduate job-related experience?
  • Yes
  • No