Materials Scientist

Materials 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 materials science experience to join our expanding team. The primary focus of this role is developing strategies for ink formulations based on catalyst and substrate (porous transport layers and membranes) selection, and material characterization of components in membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs). This position supports the research and development of custom monomer and polymer electrolytes that are incorporated into electrochemical devices.

Responsibilities:

• Develop new electrode inks and catalyst formulations to optimize electrochemical performance.
• Automation and validation of electrode ink spray coating methodologies.
• Generate protocols for ink production, spray coat operations, and quality control testing.
• Fabricate and characterize membrane electrode assembly (MEA) prototypes.
• Assess impact of catalysts and formulation on device performance and durability.
• Effectively collaborate in interdisciplinary teams working towards common goals.
• Ability to act as the subject matter expert and mentor junior researchers.
• 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.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree or PhD in Materials Science, Materials Chemistry, Materials Engineering, or similar.
• Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following topics:

         o Formulation science as applied to development and optimization of colloidal inks.
         o Metallurgy and characterization of materials operating in multidimensionally stressed environments including    

             mechanical, chemical, and electrical.
          o Corrosion engineering or similar.
          o Surface science or surface modification and activation of inorganic materials (e.g. metal or carbon mesh)

• 2-3 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.
• Ability to work independently, design experiments, interpret results, and identify next steps and potential pitfalls.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Track record of scientific publications and conference presentations.
• Basic knowledge of electrochemistry at the undergraduate level or higher.
• Hands-on experience with electrochemical cells or related instruments such as potentiostats and test stations.

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.