Research Scientist

Research Scientist
Location: Ithaca, NY
Job Type: Full-Time & In-Person

Ecolectro develops specialty polymers and electrolytic cells for green hydrogen production, fuel cell technology, and electrolyzers. Our breakthrough alkaline exchange materials exhibit high ionic conductivity and exceptionally high chemical stability. These desirable characteristics reduce device costs and enable scalable green hydrogen, promoting access to clean energy and economically sustainable fuels.

We have an opening for a motivated scientist or engineer with polymer synthesis and characterization experience to join our expanding team. The primary focus of this role is polymer synthesis, modification, and characterization. This position supports the research and development of custom monomers and polymers that are incorporated into electrochemical devices.

Responsibilities:

• Synthesis and purification of organic small molecules, including air-free and moisture-free techniques.
• Synthesize and modify polymer materials using various polymer synthetic techniques (e.g. ROMP, Free radical, ATRP, RAFT, Condensation, Anion, Cationic, Friedel-Crafts, Super-Acid, Diels-Alder).
• Characterization of compounds using analytical techniques (e.g. NMR, GPC, Viscometry, or Titrations).
• Prepare ultrathin membranes via tape-casting or roll-to-roll coating.
• Support process development related to new products and qualifications.
• Effectively collaborate in interdisciplinary teams working towards common goals.
• Design and execute experiments while carefully documenting all testing procedures in accordance with company guidelines including safety protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Present and submit detailed reports on research carried out using Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or similar software.
• Prepare and evaluate technical plans, reports, presentations, and proposals to support project success.
• Written and verbal communication of ideas and results to internal science and business teams.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or similar.
• Demonstrated experience in polymer research; Track record of relevant publications or presentations is preferred.
• Proficiency in polymer synthesis techniques (e.g. Free radical, ATRP, RAFT, Condensation, Anion, Cationic, Friedel-Crafts, Super-Acid, Diels-Alder) in addition to ROMP.
• Competency in 1+ polymer characterization methods (e.g. DSC, TGA, GPC, Viscometry, Rheometry, XRD, SEM)
• 2+ years of experience in academic or research chemistry lab.
• Basic understanding of general principles of chemical laboratory safety.
• Proven creative problem-solving abilities to overcome technical challenges.
• Practice the scientific method to address central research questions.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and efficient in executing research tasks.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Data processing experience including graphing and statistics using Microsoft Excel or similar software.
• Familiarity with a variety of electrochemical theories and methods.
• Ability to work independently, design experiments, interpret results, and identify next steps and potential pitfalls.
• Basic knowledge of electrochemistry; Hands-on experience with electrochemical cells is preferred.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Ecolectro is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. We strongly encourage applications from all equity groups, even those where not all job requirements are met.

To apply, please send resumes and cover letters to recruiting@ecolectro.com.