Senior Researcher

Department: Innovation & Technology

Location: Boston, MA (Hybrid)

Travel Involved: 10-15%

Job Type: Full-Time

We are looking for an individual to join our Global Catalysis Team. The senior Research & Development Researcher will be responsible for discovery and development of biomass to chemicals catalysts.  This includes synthesis and evaluation of catalysts in the laboratory, as well as the transfer of this technology to larger scale implementation.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for being the scientific lead on research projects to discover, develop and deploy new, market leading biomass to chemicals catalysts as well as potentially invent novel catalytic processes for their use.  Developing and executing experimental plans and managing multiple technical programs are critical aspects of the role.

• Safe operation: Stay current on all safety training, participate in necessary safety audits, effectively manage and maintain excellent laboratory housekeeping as well as standard operating procedures.
• Demonstrate initiative by identifying opportunities to improve internal laboratory workflows including safe practices, testing techniques or equipment capability.
• Providing technical leadership and direction for new research
• Effectively work within a project team of experts from various disciplines to successfully meeting project milestones and timelines; elements of research on lab scale and links to catalyst scale-up and business.
• Communicate experimental observations in varied formats including, technical seminars, customer presentations, management team meetings, etc.
• Continue to advance fundamental understanding to gain insights on key enablers to improve catalyst performance.
• Mentor and supervise technicians and junior scientists to carry out research activities.
• Participate on project teams completing research. Develop and implement comprehensive technical project plans
• Lead technology transfer to manufacturing & aid in scale-up support 

• Strong knowledge of biomass to chemicals catalysis and technology as well as a basic knowledge of applications of biobased chemicals.
• Creativity, entrepreneurship, initiative and good critical judgment
• Strong technical and interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively with other departments and those outside the Technology and Innovation Center. 
• Track record of implementing creative and innovative technologies. 
• Demonstrated excellent verbal & written communication skills.

• Ph.D. Degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering with a research specialization in catalysis.
• Minimum ten (10) years’ experience with biomass to chemicals catalyst and/or inorganic materials synthesis techniques and with various materials characterization/analytical techniques is required.
• Experience with the synthesis of new catalytic materials including supported catalysts and the evaluation of these materials as catalysts is required.
• Experience with high throughput heterogeneous catalyst synthesis and testing tools is desired
• Demonstrated technical leadership
• Goal Zero mindset. Basic safety skills include: MSDS awareness, chemical storage, waste disposal, proper handling of toxic or hazardous materials and familiarity with safe laboratory operating principles.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem solving skills.
• Strong computer skills, including MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Ability to work with colleagues within a project team.
• Strong writing and presentation skills