Chief Scientist (AI Simulation)

TL;DR

Chief Scientist (AI Simulation): Leading the scientific direction and technical roadmap for the Magnets vertical with an accent on computational materials discovery, physics-based simulation, and AI-driven magnet development. Focus on building a top-tier scientific team, architecting the feedback loops between modeling and experimental validation, and translating research into manufacturable magnet technologies for industrial and defense applications.

Location: Must be based in the US, UK, or Canada (with specific geographic pay tiers applied).

Salary: $224,000 – $420,000 (based on US tiers; UK/Canada ranges apply accordingly).

Company

SandboxAQ is a high-growth company delivering AI solutions that address complex challenges in life sciences, financial services, cybersecurity, and industrial sectors.

What you will do

• Define the research strategy and technical roadmap for high-performance permanent magnet development.
• Build, lead, and mentor a multidisciplinary team of research, computational, and ML scientists.
• Architect the integration of magnetism-aware Large Quantitative Models (LQMs) with experimental validation.
• Oversee the translation of generative design outputs into a robust IP portfolio.
• Lead scientific engagement with national labs, defense organizations, and industrial manufacturing partners.
• Collaborate with commercial teams to identify licensing opportunities and co-development partnerships.

Requirements

• PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or related discipline with deep specialization in magnetism.
• 7+ years of post-PhD experience leading scientific programs in magnetic materials at a principal or director level.
• Proven ability to translate multi-scale and ML-driven modeling into manufacturable magnet formulations.
• Outstanding external scientific presence with a strong record of publications and patents.
• Experience building and leading multidisciplinary scientific teams to deliver against external commitments.
• Must be eligible to work in the US, UK, or Canada as per the company's regional hiring structure.

Nice to have

• Experience with Fe-N, Mn-based, or Sm-Co rare-earth-lean magnet systems.
• Familiarity with CHIPS Act, DOD, or DOE federally funded R&D programs.
• Prior involvement in NewCo formation or scaling research IP into commercial manufacturing.
• Experience translating system-level application requirements into simulation targets.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements and generous PTO.
• Direct exposure to CHIPS Act-funded programs and senior executive leadership.
• Dedicated learning budgets and professional growth opportunities.