Staff Materials Research Scientist (AI)

TL;DR

Staff Materials Research Scientist (AI): Developing PFAS-lean or PFAS-free substitutes for semiconductor process materials using generative ML and physics-based simulations with an accent on bridging generative chemistry workflows and experimental validation. Focus on ranking candidate molecules, translating partner feedback into technical improvements, and applying semiconductor domain judgment to ensure process reality.

Location: Remote (Must be based in the United States)

Salary: $163,200 – $306,000

Company

High-growth company delivering AI solutions and Large Quantitative Models (LQMs) to address challenges in life sciences, financial services, and cybersecurity.

What you will do

• Own the partner validation loop, translating industrial problems into well-posed target specifications, constraints, and qualification criteria.
• Operate generative chemistry discovery workflows to produce decision-ready shortlists of candidate molecules for partner validation.
• Apply semiconductor domain judgment to validate lead molecules against real-world process, performance, and EHS constraints.
• Close the experimental feedback loop by translating partner data into actionable technical improvement points for the internal team.
• Collaborate with internal dataset, computational chemistry, and ML teams to align reward objectives with partner-defined criteria.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 6+ years of post-PhD industrial R&D experience in developing or qualifying semiconductor process chemicals.
• Direct, hands-on experience discovering or evaluating PFAS-lean/PFAS-free alternatives for semiconductor manufacturing.
• Working knowledge of semiconductor unit processes (lithography, etch, CMP, cleaning, thermal management).
• Proficiency in Python for running and configuring computational discovery workflows.
• Must be based in the United States.

Nice to have

• Experience with PFAS phase-out or fluorine-free reformulation in a fab or specialty-chemicals setting.
• Track record of publications or patents in semiconductor materials or fluorochemistry.
• Experience operating within a CHIPS Act or other federally funded R&D programs.
• Experience defining qualification protocols jointly with fabs, OEMs, or chemical suppliers.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive base salary, equity, and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match and generous parental leave.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements and generous PTO.
• Direct exposure to senior leadership and dedicated learning budgets for continued growth.