Senior Scientist, Electrochemistry

Voya Energy, Inc.; Hayward (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Voya Energy, Inc. in Hayward, California, is seeking a Senior Scientist in Electrochemistry to help develop and scale innovative metal-air fuel cells. This role requires a PhD and aims to enhance the performance of electrochemical systems.

The ideal candidate will build on extensive research experience, drive R&D efforts, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition technologies from lab to pilot production.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of industry or advanced research experience in electrochemical systems.
• Experience with flow-based systems like fuel cells, flow batteries, electrolyzers preferred.
• Strong understanding of electrochemical fundamentals, reaction kinetics, and transport phenomena.

Responsibilities

• Develop electrochemical methods to characterize and predict performance of metal-air fuel cells.
• Lead characterization and selection of anode, cathode, and other cell materials.
• Work with engineering to design and optimize cell geometry and stack architecture.

Skills

Electrochemistry

Chemical Engineering

Materials Science

Physics

Data analysis

Cross-functional teamwork

Education

PhD in relevant field

Job description

Senior Scientist, Electrochemistry

Voya Energy is commercializing a closed-loop electrochemical metal fuel and generator that outperforms diesel in energy density, cost, and stability. At the core of this innovation is Voya’s proprietary low‑corrosion electrolyte and system architecture, which deliver higher power density and allow the use of lower‑purity feedstock. Leveraging this advantage, Voya is also developing a low‑cost electrochemical process for producing the fuel at scale.

Together, these technologies position Voya to redefine how clean energy is stored, transported, and delivered globally. The company is backed by leading venture investors, including Energy Impact Partners and Founders Fund, and led by a founding team of industry veterans (Richard Wang, CEO; Matt Horton, CCO; Steven Kaye, CTO) with deep expertise in electrochemistry, batteries, and mobility.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced R&D environment to help develop, validate, and scale the cell architecture for Voya’s proprietary metal‑air fuel cell.

What You’ll Do

• Develop electrochemical methods to characterize and predict performance of Voya’s metal‑air fuel cells
• Lead characterization and selection of anode, cathode, and other cell materials from vendors and internal development efforts.
• Develop operating conditions to optimize cell power, efficiency, and durability.
• Work with Voya’s engineering team to design and optimize cell geometry, stack architecture, and electrochemical interfaces.
• Work with Voya’s product development team to scale and demonstrate your technology from lab to pilot and production‑intent systems.

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or equivalent experience
• 5–8 years of industry or advanced research experience in electrochemical systems
• Track record of developing novel electrochemical cell architectures or test methods. Experience with flow‑based systems (e.g. fuel cells, flow batteries, electrolyzers) preferred.
• Experience working with cross‑functional teams, preferably for system or device development.
• Ability to operate in a fast‑paced, start‑up environment
• Strong understanding of electrochemical fundamentals, reaction kinetics, transport phenomena, and cell design
• Hands‑on experience designing and testing electrochemical cells or related energy systems
• Experience with electrochemical characterization techniques and data analysis
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute experimental programs and solve complex technical problems
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present technical concepts clearly across disciplines