Technology Advancement & Commercialization (TAC) at RTI international is seeking a highly motivated Heterogeneous Catalyst Research Scientist to join our dynamic research Materials & Environment Team at RTI headquarters in Research Triangle Park, NC, working on developing novel catalysts with new and improved functionalities for various industrial applications.

The primary roles of the chosen candidate are to contribute to the expansion of research programs concerning the development of revolutionary new technologies and drive sustainability in the chemical manufacturing industry. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, and catalysis, with hands-on experience in synthesis and development of novel catalyst synthesis and characterization techniques.

• Design and synthesis of new heterogeneous catalysts based on the project requirement and objectives.
• Perform in-depth catalyst characterizations using a range of in-situ and ex-situ spectroscopy and microscopy techniques.
• Independently design experimental plans and execute them in a timely manner to meet project goals.
• Perform various catalyst activity testing, analyze, and interpret characterization data to understand catalyst structure-property relationships and guide further catalyst development.
• Compile and analyze experimental data to draw meaningful conclusions.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations summarizing research findings, and effectively communicate the key results and deliverables with stakeholders.
• Demonstrate safety leadership in all aspects of the role.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including chemists, engineers, and process scientists to support research projects and achieve project milestones.

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field with a focus on heterogeneous catalysis.
• Proven industrial R&D or academic experience in heterogeneous catalyst design, synthesis, characterization, and evaluation.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of catalysis principles and mechanisms.
• Proficiency in a wide range of analytical techniques for catalyst characterization.
• Experience with catalyst testing and evaluation methodologies.
• Excellent data analysis, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Effective communication, writing, and presentation skills with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.
• Excellent organizational skills and time management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Post-doctoral or industrial experience in novel heterogeneous catalyst development.
• Familiarity with scale-up and commercialization of catalytic processes.
• Experience with computational modeling and simulation techniques for catalyst design and optimization.
• Experience with lab automation using LabView and/or Python.
• Experience with COMSOL, Aspen, MATLAB.
• Experience with Visio or CA

The application folder must contain: 

• A cover letter specifying the candidate's motivation in relation to this job profile.
• A detailed curriculum vitae.
• Brief research statement.
• Contact information of 3 referees (PhD mentor, postdoctoral mentor if relevant, and a third referee familiar with the applicant’s education, research, and entrepreneurial experience). Applicants are assumed to have obtained their references’ consent to be contacted for this matter.

RTI is committed to Lead Forward. We innovate, develop talent, collaborate, communicate, think globally, act strategically, and engage inclusively. If that aligns with your values, we would like to hear from you. Join us and experience the RTI Difference.

For San Francisco, CA USA Job Postings Only: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Further information is available here.

The anticipated pay range for this role is listed below. Our pay ranges represent national averages and may vary by location as a geographic differential may be applied to some locations within the United States.

RTI considers multiple factors when making an offer including, for example: established salary range, internal budget, business needs, and education and years of work experience possessed by the applicant. Further, salary is merely one element to our offer.

At RTI, we demonstrate our commitment to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes (among other things) a competitive base salary, a generous paid time off policy, merit based annual increases, bonus opportunities and a robust recognition program. Other benefits include a competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability), access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan, paid parental leave for all parents, financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments, financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities, an employee assistance program, and numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.