Staff Materials Research Scientist, PFAS Alternative Discovery
SandboxAQ · Remote · United States ·
COMPENSATION
$204k – $306k
Listed on the employer's job board (Ashby)
- Staff level role
- Hybrid work model
- PhD required
- Semiconductor focus
- Python proficiency
Join the Chemical Simulation group at SandboxAQ to develop PFAS-free substitutes for semiconductor process materials. You will serve as the scientific link between AI-driven molecular discovery and industrial partners, ensuring candidate molecules meet real-world manufacturing constraints.
This position requires deep expertise in semiconductor chemistry and fluorochemistry. You will manage the validation loop, rank generated compounds for fitness, and translate experimental feedback into technical improvements for the internal modeling teams.
What you'll do
- Serve as primary contact for external co-development partners on target specifications
- Operate generative chemistry workflows to assess and rank candidate compounds
- Validate lead molecules against semiconductor process and EHS constraints
- Translate experimental partner feedback into actionable technical improvements
- Align internal property targets with partner-defined qualification criteria
What you'll need
- PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or related field
- 6+ years post-PhD experience in semiconductor process chemical R&D
- Hands-on experience evaluating PFAS-lean or PFAS-free alternatives
- Knowledge of semiconductor unit processes like lithography and etch
- Proficiency in Python for running computational discovery workflows
- Familiarity with generative molecular design or ML property prediction
Nice to have
- Experience with PFAS phase-out in fab or specialty-chemicals settings
- Track record of publications or patents in semiconductor materials
- Experience defining qualification protocols with fabs or OEMs
- Background in CHIPS Act or federally funded R&D programs
Stack
- Python
- Generative ML
- DFT
- Molecular Dynamics
How you'll work
- Flexible hybrid work arrangements
- Global team environment
What you get
- Competitive base salary plus equity
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Generous parental leave and PTO
- Dedicated learning budgets for professional growth