Lead R&D in optical materials, utilizing spectroscopy and machine learning techniques for materials discovery. Propose and manage research initiatives.
Essential Duties:
Lead cutting-edge R&D initiatives within a highly interdisciplinary environment that requires collaboration with chemists, physicists, and engineers. The research encompasses programs spanning optical materials, magnetic materials, and polymer science with a strong emphasis on computational modeling and materials theory.
Required Skills:
Excellent theoretical foundation in atomistic modeling and strong knowledge of current and emerging ML/AI techniques relevant to candidate generation and data insights as part of a materials discovery pipeline.
Expert-level ability in materials modeling, particularly in understanding at least one of light-matter interaction across a broad range of materials and photonic devices, magnetic property prediction, or polymer modeling.
The ability to lead the development of computational platforms for materials discovery is critical for success.
Working knowledge of experimental techniques such as thin-film fabrication, wet chemistry, and solid-state sample preparation is a plus, but not the primary focus.
Generate ideas for new research programs, market ideas, and write proposals for funding. Lead program teams for awarded projects.
Strong experience in atomistic material simulation within frameworks such as density functional theory (DFT) or molecular dynamics. Experience with HPC environments and job scheduling is a significant advantage.
Highly proficient in programming languages like Python or C++ for data analysis and integration with simulation workflows.
Experience with system simulations in tools such as Lumerical, ZEMAX, or COMSOL is a plus.
Creation of technology roadmaps, writing competitive research proposals, leading teams of scientists, and working with external funding agencies is highly desirable.
Required Education:
PhD in Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering with a strong emphasis on material discovery.
Physical Requirements:
Must be capable of performing extended analysis at computer workstations.
Must be able to work safely in an optical, electrical testing and wet chemistry laboratory.
Special Requirements:
U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a US Government security clearance.
Compensation:
The base salary range for this full-time position is $145,745 - $186,688 + bonus + benefits.
Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed reflect the base salary only, and do not include potential bonus or benefits.
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.
Top Skills
C++
Comsol
Cp2K
Lumerical
Python
Quantumespresso
Vasp
Zemax
HRL Laboratories Malibu, California, USA Office
We are nestled on the Malibu mountainside overlooking the Pacific!
HRL Laboratories Calabasas, California, USA Office
26800 Agoura Rd, Calabasas, CA, United States, 91301
HRL Laboratories Camarillo, California, USA Office
741 Calle Plano, Camarillo, CA, United States, 93012
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