Researching and developing advanced material systems is the core of this role, focusing on inorganic particle selection, surface functionalization, dispersion, and particle-matrix interface engineering. The Research Scientist will apply organic and polymer chemistry to design and develop surface-modification methods, source and evaluate particles, and establish critical chemical/material parameters. This position suits a candidate with strong organic or polymer chemistry fundamentals, practical surface science experience, experimental rigor, and creative problem-solving skills, who can translate successful concepts into reproducible material and process specifications.
Responsibilities
Invent, design, and synthesize novel particles by surface-functionalization using principles of organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, and interfacial science
Screen, synthesize, and modify surface-active molecules, coupling agents, compatibilizers, oligomers, and polymers that control wetting, dispersion, interfacial interaction, stability, and adhesion
Source and evaluate a broad range of inorganic particles or powers with controlled composition, size, size distribution, shape, morphology, purity, surface area, and surface characteristics
Define particle-selection criteria and specifications based on material compatibility, dispersion behavior, processing needs, functional performance, reliability, availability, and cost
Establish structure-property relationships between particle attributes, surface chemistry, interface behavior, composite microstructure, processing response, and end-use performance
Develop laboratory-scale particle-treatment protocols and define critical chemistry, sequence, control, and acceptance parameters for transfer to process development
Integrate treated particles into representative material systems to assess compatibility, dispersion quality, uniformity, processability, mechanical and thermal behavior, and functional performance
Work with the characterization and reliability engineer to select appropriate measurements, interpret analytical results, and establish particle and interface acceptance criteria
Build technical relationships with particle and surface-treatment suppliers; evaluate supplier capability, material consistency, scalability, and quality controls
Document results clearly, transfer mature treatment concepts and specifications to the process engineer, and generate invention disclosures and patentable concepts in particle and interface engineering
Requirements
PhD in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Colloid Science, Surface Science, Materials Science, or a related field
0-3 years of directly relevant industrial experience with a Ph.D.
Strong hands-on background in organic chemistry or polymer chemistry, including reaction design, synthesis, modification, purification or workup, and systematic experimental optimization
Millions of jobs, with real people getting hired every day
200,000+
New jobs added daily
7,000,000+
Verified job listings
1,000,000+
Tailored applications submitted
Experience with surface functionalization, grafting, coupling chemistry, polymer modification, compatibilization, or related approaches for controlling material interfaces
Working knowledge of colloid and surface science, including wetting, dispersion, adsorption, agglomeration, interfacial adhesion, and surface stability
Experience designing particle-treatment experiments and converting successful results into clear, reproducible laboratory protocols and material specifications
Ability to connect chemical structure and surface composition with particle behavior, processing, material structure, functional performance, and reliability
Working knowledge of chemical, surface, particle, polymer, dispersion, thermal, and microstructural characterization, with the ability to interpret results critically
Experience with DOE, statistical analysis, technical data visualization, and establishment of critical-to-function parameters and acceptance criteria
Ability to work safely with chemicals and particles, maintain high-quality experimental records, and collaborate on scale-up and process-transfer activities
Nice to have:
Demonstrated creativity and technical problem solving, with a record of inventions, patents, publications, or other evidence of innovation
Experience with sustainable materials or processing, including lower-impact treatments, solvent reduction, energy-efficient processing, waste minimization, material recovery, or lifecycle-informed material selection
Benefits
Competitive total compensation package
Medical, Dental and Vision on 1st day
Company 401K match
Paid Time Off & Holidays
Sick Leave Policy
Casual day to day work environment
Hybrid/flexible work environment (for some positions)
Wellness programs
Employee discounts
Ongoing development
Advancement opportunities
Bonus program eligibility
About the Company
E Ink is the originator, pioneer, and commercial leader in ePaper technology, developing products that are changing how people access information every day. The Fremont Research & Development team is thriving and growing.
