Lead Materials Synthesis Chemist - Materials Discovery Research Institute

UL Research Institutes; Skokie (IL); On-site; USD 108,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Lead Materials Synthesis Chemist to spearhead innovative research in materials synthesis and characterization. This pivotal role focuses on developing advanced synthesis workflows while mentoring a talented team. You will collaborate with diverse partners to tackle global challenges in sustainability and safety. With a commitment to impactful research, this position offers the chance to contribute to groundbreaking solutions that promote a safer, more sustainable future. Join a dynamic team dedicated to excellence and innovation in materials discovery.

Benefits

Medical Coverage

Dental Coverage

401k Match

Paid Time Off

Flexible Work Arrangements

Qualifications

• Expertise in materials synthesis techniques including zeolites and MOFs.
• Experience with characterization tools like XRD and electron microscopy.
• Strong problem-solving and leadership skills with excellent communication.

Responsibilities

• Lead research on synthesis and characterization of novel materials.
• Mentor a team of scientists and engineers, providing career support.
• Collaborate across teams and with external partners for impactful research.

Skills

Materials Synthesis Techniques

Characterization Tools (XRD, Electron Microscopy)

Problem-Solving Skills

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Education

PhD in Chemistry

Master’s Degree in Related Field

Bachelor’s Degree in Related Field

Tools

Spectroscopy

Thermal Analysis

Catalysis

Job description

Lead Materials Synthesis Chemist - Materials Discovery Research Institute

Join to apply for the Lead Materials Synthesis Chemist - Materials Discovery Research Institute role at UL Research Institutes.

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity for a Lead Materials Synthesis Chemist, Lead Research Scientist I at UL Research Institutes, Materials Discovery Research Institute (MDRI), based in Skokie, Illinois. The Lead Materials Synthesis Chemist will drive experimental research by developing and leading advanced materials synthesis and characterization efforts. This role focuses on building robust synthesis workflows, mentoring a high-performing team, and collaborating across disciplines to accelerate the discovery and deployment of materials addressing global challenges in sustainability, safety, and environmental health.

UL Research Institutes

ULRI expands safety science boundaries to create a safer, more sustainable world. With over a century of studying unintended consequences of innovation, we design solutions to mitigate risks and share findings with academia, industry, and policymakers. We focus on critical safety and sustainability issues, asking tough questions because we believe a safer world begins with knowledge.

Join us to build a safer, more secure, and sustainable future with our Materials Discovery Research Institute team, dedicated to producing impactful research.

Materials Discovery Research Institute

Our institute develops and deploys new materials to address global safety challenges, harnessing advanced computing and high-throughput experimental methods. Our focus areas include materials for carbon capture and energy storage, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enable renewable energy transitions, all built on a commitment to safety and sustainability.

What You’ll Learn And Achieve

As the Lead Materials Synthesis Chemist, you will:

• Lead research programs on discovery, synthesis, and characterization of novel materials for sustainability applications.
• Mentor and lead a team of scientists and engineers, providing technical leadership and career support.
• Collaborate across teams and with external partners to drive interdisciplinary research.
• Establish partnerships with academia, government, and industry to translate research into real-world impact.
• Publish research findings and present at scientific conferences.
• Support laboratory growth, staffing, budgeting, and equipment planning.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Working at UL Research Institutes

We foster a diverse, collaborative environment focused on innovation, growth, and shared values of collaboration, respect, integrity, and beneficence. Our comprehensive benefits include bonus opportunities, medical and dental coverage, a 401k match up to 5%, additional retirement contributions, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements where possible.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Expertise in materials synthesis techniques across various classes, including zeolites, MOFs/COFs, and mixed metal oxides.
• Experience with characterization tools like XRD, electron microscopy, spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and catalysis.
• Proven success in leading research teams, securing funding, and delivering impactful research.
• Strong problem-solving, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• A proactive, innovative mindset and high curiosity about the organization’s mission.

Educational and Experience Requirements

• PhD in chemistry, materials chemistry, chemical engineering, or related field plus 6 years of research experience OR
• Master’s degree plus 8 years of relevant work experience OR
• Bachelor’s degree plus 12 years of relevant work experience.

Experience with machine learning, data analytics, and high-throughput experimentation is preferred.

About UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement

ULRI and UL Standards & Engagement are nonprofit organizations advancing safety science through research, data analysis, standards development, and public outreach. We foster a global community dedicated to safety, security, and sustainability, working with partners to drive innovation and societal well-being.

Visit UL.org and ULSE.org for more information.

Salary Range

$108,418.43 - $149,075.34

Pay Type

Salary

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Industries

• Research Services