Cathode Scientist - LFP CAM

Princeton NuEnergy; South Brunswick (NJ); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeton NuEnergy is looking for a Cathode Scientist to work on the development of cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries. You will take a leading role in experimental design and execution related to cathode synthesis and optimization, especially for LFP.

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD and have over a year of relevant experience, ideally in a research lab setting. The position is on-site in Bordentown, NJ, offering an exciting opportunity to impact the battery supply chain.

Qualifications

• PhD degree in a relevant field.
• 1+ years of industry experience in battery materials.
• Hands-on in scientific experiments and laboratory equipment.

Responsibilities

• Lead experimental programs for cathode material synthesis and optimization.
• Conduct electrochemical evaluations and material characterization.
• Collaborate with engineering teams for scalable manufacturing.

Skills

Electrochemistry

Data analysis

Laboratory experiments

Process engineering

Education

PhD in chemistry, electrochemistry, physics, chemical engineering, materials science

Tools

SEM

TEM

XRD

ICP

Job description

Princeton NuEnergy (PNE) is an advanced materials manufacturing and technology company, with the most cost-effective and capital-efficient process for the production of battery‑grade cathode active material (CAM) for lithium‑ion batteries. Built on a proprietary, closed‑loop platform, PNE's high‑performing technologies span multiple high‑growth materials businesses, including Rejuvenation (Cathode‑to‑Cathode® direct recycling), Advanced Black Mass™ production, Upcycled® CAM, and more — strengthening the domestic battery supply chain and supporting U.S. energy independence and national security priorities.

As a Cathode Scientist, you will be mainly working on the development of cathode active materials in the lab‑scale setting, with a specific focus on LFP. The ideal candidate will have knowledge in electrochemistry, LIBs, and prior experience with conducting hands‑on experiments, CAM synthesis and process design, and analytical capabilities.

What you will be working on?

• Independently lead the planning, design, and execution of complex experimental programs for LFP/LMFP cathode material synthesis, regeneration, process optimization, and scale‑up activities, including defining technical objectives, developing experimental methodologies, and driving data‑informed technical decision‑making
• Lead the development and optimization of cathode active material (CAM) processes for both virgin and recycled feedstocks, with a focus on material performance, process reproducibility, and manufacturing scalability
• Drive process innovation and continuous improvement related to direct recycling, cathode rejuvenation, and next‑generation cathode manufacturing technologies using PNE’s proprietary platform
• Conduct and oversee electrochemical evaluations, including coin cell and pouch cell fabrication, cycling analysis, rate capability testing, and long‑term performance validation
• Perform advanced material characterization and data analysis using techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, ICP, particle size analysis, and other physical and chemical characterization methods
• Collaborate closely with process engineering and pilot production teams to transfer laboratory‑scale developments into scalable manufacturing operations and pilot‑line implementation
  
• Support technical engagements with customers, strategic partners, and external collaborators regarding cathode material performance, process capabilities, and commercialization initiatives
  
• Participating in grant applications and writing up proposals from time to time
  

Our ideal candidate is someone with

• PhD degree in chemistry, electrochemistry, physics, chemical engineering, materials science, or a similar field
• 1+ years of experience from industry or national laboratories in synthesis, characterization, process engineering, or electrochemistry of lithium‑ion battery materials
  
• Knowledgeable and hands‑on in scientific experiments, tests, data collection protocols, and analytical laboratory equipment
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to effectively communicate with internal teams and external collaborators
• Strong problem‑solver, analytical and critical mindset with the passion and curiosity for continuous improvement and environmental sustainability
• Comfortable with working in a dynamic and fast‑paced environment, while handling multiple tasks and meeting deadlines

Physical and environmental requirements

• This is an on‑site position in Bordentown, NJ
• Able to work in the research lab environment and wear personal protective equipment, including a dust mask, respirator, safety shoes, gloves, and safety glasses/face shield
• Able to lift & carry 50 pounds
• Able to stand, walk, and use hands to operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands or arms; climb, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch when necessary for job activity
  

Princeton NuEnergy, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state, and local laws.