Computational Polymer Scientist

avav; Bath Township (OH); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a Computational Polymer Scientist to advance the theory and computation of covalent adaptable polymers for DoW applications. You will work at the interface of chemistry, physics, and computer science, translating molecular design into macroscopic predictions.

The role requires leading MD simulations, developing GPU-accelerated software in Python, and collaborating with experimentalists and peers to publish results. ITAR/EAR compliance and a PhD are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in a related field and strong publication record.
• Theoretical background in polymer physics and networks.
• Experience with MD simulations and Python coding.
• Excellent cross-disciplinary communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research on dynamic covalent polymer networks.
• Develop Python software for GPU-accelerated rheology predictions.
• Use MD simulations to model network behavior and viscoelasticity.
• Collaborate with experimental chemists and academics.
• Present findings and draft technical reports and papers.

Skills

Python

MD simulations

Polymer physics

PhD-level problem solving

Communication

Publications

Education

PhD in Physics/ Chemistry/ Materials Science/ Chemical Engineering/ Polymer Science

Tools

LAMMPS

GROMACS

HOOMD-blue

CUDA / CuPy

Python libraries

Job description

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

AeroVironment, Inc. is seeking a highly skilled and self-motivated Computational Polymer Scientist/Research Scientist to join our collaborative, multidisciplinary team supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).

In this role, you will perform theoretical and computational research on the dynamics and rheology of covalent adaptable polymers tailored for critical Department of War (DoW) applications. You will work at the interface of chemistry, physics, and computer science, collaborating closely with leading experimentalists and academic partners to translate molecular-level design into macroscopic material predictions.

Key Responsibilities

• Scientific Research: Conduct independent research investigating the structural dynamics, viscoelasticity, and rheological properties of dynamic, covalent adaptable networks.
• Code Development: Develop and implement custom Python-based software and algorithms for GPU-accelerated rheology predictions.
• Simulation & Modeling: Utilize advanced molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and theoretical polymer physics frameworks to model network behavior.
• Collaboration: Act as the primary computational liaison, coordinating closely with experimental chemists, materials scientists, and academic collaborators.
• Project Communication: Drive project milestones, present findings to stakeholders, and draft high-quality technical reports and peer-reviewed publications.

Required Qualifications

• This position involves working within a government facility and requires U.S. Citizenship
• Education: Doctorate (PhD) in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related field.
• Technical Experience: Theoretical background in polymer physics and polymer networks.
• Computational Experience: Hands‑on experience executing and analyzing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.
• Programming Skills: Strong programming proficiency in Python for code development.
• Professional Capabilities: Demonstrated PhD-level critical problem‑solving skills and a proven track record of research via publications.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills for active cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with GPU-accelerated computing frameworks (e.g., CUDA, CuPy, or GPU-enabled LAMMPS).
• Familiarity with standard molecular dynamics packages (e.g., LAMMPS, GROMACS, HOOMD‑blue, ESPResSo).
• Prior experience modeling dynamic/reversible covalent chemistries (such as vitrimers or self‑healing polymers).

ITAR Requirement

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A “U.S. person” according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits

AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC.

Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty – and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Statement

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.