What are the responsibilities and job description for the Electron Microscopy & Nanomaterials Characterization Scientist position at Unearthly Materials?
Job Summary
Unearthly Materials Inc. is developing next-generation superconducting materials. We are expanding our R&D program to translate recent breakthroughs into transformative technologies.
We are seeking a scientist with strong expertise in electron microscopy and nanoscale materials characterization to lead structural and compositional analysis using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX/EDS). This role focuses on high-resolution imaging, defect analysis, and nanoscale compositional mapping to provide critical insight into complex
superconducting materials systems.
The successful candidate will work with air-sensitive, multiphase, and nanostructured materials, extracting reliable structural and chemical information from challenging samples. You will work closely with synthesis, thin-film growth, crystallography, spectroscopy, and theory teams to establish structure–property relationships at the nanoscale and accelerate materials development.
Candidates with demonstrated experimental ownership, such as developing microscopy workflows, advanced image analysis pipelines, or novel sample preparation methods, are strongly encouraged to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead TEM/STEM characterization of advanced materials, including high-resolution imaging, diffraction analysis, and nanoscale structural analysis.
- Perform SEM imaging and EDX/EDS compositional mapping to identify phases, defects, and compositional variations.
- Conduct atomic-resolution imaging, electron diffraction, and lattice analysis to identify crystal structure, defects, strain, and disorder.
- Develop and implement workflows for nano-structural characterization of complex and airsensitive materials systems.
- Interpret microscopy and spectroscopy data to guide materials synthesis decisions and understand microstructure–property relationships.
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot electron microscopy instrumentation (TEM/STEM/SEM) and associated detectors.
- Build and maintain curated microscopy datasets and generate clear internal reports linking nanoscale structure to macroscopic properties.
Additional Responsibilities
- Collaborate with synthesis teams working on solid-state, high-pressure, and thin-film materials development.
- Support integrated characterization using complementary techniques such as XRD, Raman, IR, XPS, or NMR (as available).
- Contribute to cross-disciplinary projects involving theory, synthesis, and device development.
About Unearthly Materials
Unearthly Materials, Inc. is an innovative, deep-tech materials company at the frontier of superconducting technology. We have created novel compounds and processes that allow for superconductivity in ambient conditions–a scientific breakthrough poised to revolutionize numerous industries including energy, transportation, medicine, and microelectronics.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a related field.
- Demonstrated hands-on expertise in electron microscopy and nanoscale materials characterization, including: Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM),Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX/EDS)
- Strong understanding of crystallography, defects, interfaces, and nanoscale structure–property relationships.
- Experience operating and maintaining advanced electron microscopy instrumentation.
- Strong data analysis skills and commitment to rigorous and reproducible materials characterization.
Preferred Experience
- Experience working with air-sensitive materials, including glovebox or inert-environment synthesis.
- Familiarity with high-pressure or high-temperature materials synthesis is a plus.
- Candidates with demonstrated experimental ownership, such as developing diffraction workflows, refining structural models, or building analysis pipelines, are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Flexibility to work evenings or weekends as needed to meet critical deadlines.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Competitive salary (commensurate with experience)
- Flexible working hours
- Collaborative, high-impact research environment
Equal Opportunities Statement
Unearthly Materials is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other factor protected by law.
Please send your application to unearthly@unearthlymaterials.com.