HRL Laboratories LLC is a jointly-owned research laboratory for The Boeing Company and General Motors. Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean, HRL has pioneered state of the art research and development for more than 70 years. HRL's scientists and engineers are on the leading edge of technology, conducting pioneering research and providing real-world technology solutions for the aerospace, automotive and defense industries. The Scaled Nanotechnology group at HRL is focused on developing new, multifunctional materials and coatings by controlling nano/micro-scale architecture to tailor properties such as wetting, heat transfer, ice nucleation, surface adhesion, reaction thermodynamics, kinetics, color, and elasticity. We are focused on using scalable processes to rapidly mature technologies from fundamental discovery to commercial products.

Education Desired: Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Chemistry, Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or closely related field with an emphasis in design, synthesis and applications of novel polymer-based materials.

Job Description: We are seeking a candidate to join our dynamic, interdisciplinary team addressing cutting edge industrial and basic materials science research. A successful candidate will (i) develop novel multi-functional polymers and nanostructured materials that address long-standing practical challenges in automotive, aerospace and defense fields; (ii) propose new research projects focused on the development of cost-feasible and scalable proof-of-concept polymers and nanostructured materials; (iii) Design, build, test, simulate and deliver multifunctional materials and/or subsystem components to demonstrate functionality in advanced applications. The successful candidate will be required to work both independently and within interdisciplinary teams, and frequently communicate complex technical ideas to diverse audiences, both through presentations, proposals and papers. As a result, excellent communication and writing skills are critical. 

Experience Desired: Industrial or application-focused thesis research or previous work experience is desired. Experience developing and synthesizing new polymer systems for mechanical applications, structural applications, and/or coatings, particularly maturing or transitioning technology from benchtop level to production or manufacturing scales.  Familiarity with incorporating nanomaterials into polymer systems and demonstrating the effect on bulk properties,  Demonstrated ability to work productively and energetically both independently and as a member of a team.  Experience with model validation and conducting experiments is desirable as well as directing and mentoring technicians assisting projects.  Experience with proposal writing desirable.  Must have authored scientific publications and given technical presentations.  History of demonstrated technical innovation desirable. 

Knowledge Desired: Practical synthetic organic and inorganic chemistry experience and understanding of common reactive group chemistry.  Strong background in the chemistry and physics of polymers.  Working knowledge of polymer design, synthesis and testing.  Ability to connect physical theory to chemical structure and function to predict material properties and behavior. Familiarity with processing, characterization and simulation techniques spanning multiple length scales desired. Broad interest in innovation that addresses over-the-horizon automotive, aerospace and defense challenges is essential.

Essential Physical/ Mental Requirements: Must be able to perform work safely in a chemical laboratory environment. May be required to travel. 

Special Requirements: U.S. citizenship required. Must be able to obtain and maintain US Government security clearances as required.

Keywords: Polymer chemist, polymer scientist, polymer research and development (R&D), polymer physics, coatings, adhesives, industrial chemist

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee. We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.