Senior Scientist (solid state)

Position: Senior Scientist (solid state) Location: Waltham, MAJob Id: 650 # of Openings: 1 Position: Senior ScientistReports To: Solid State Team ManagerLocation: Waltham, MassachusettsA123 Systems, LLC is a leading developer and manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries and battery systems for the transportation and commercial markets.Position OverviewA123 Systems, LLC has an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented team player to lead R&D efforts to integrate solid state sulfide electrolyte materials with A123’s manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong preference for hands-on lab work with a record of achievement in the areas of solid-state electrochemistry, Li-ion batteries, materials chemistry, and/or interfacial surface science. Primary job directives will include (1) developing scalable processes to incorporate solid state sulfide electrolytes into conventional lithium battery manufacturing processes (2) driving the minimization of anode|electrolyte and cathode|electrolyte interfacial impedance both through internal efforts and collaboration with external partners. The successful candidate will require exceptional communication skills and the initiative to see large projects to completion.Primary responsibilitiesMaximize solid state battery performance by identifying, characterizing and mitigating interactions between sulfide- based solid state electrolytes and high energy density battery materials within the context of conventional manufacturing processesBuild small-scale prototype cells to measure key metrics and demonstrate technology developmentsWork with external collaborators to design, direct, and carry out experiments to achieve project milestonesPlan experiments, document results, prepare reports, and present findings to leadershipContribute to generation of intellectual propertySpecific Skills and BackgroundRequiredPh.D. with 5+ years after degree completion of industrial experience in the lithium ion battery fieldResearch experience from the materials through to the device level with sulfide based solid state electrolytes involving synthesis, modification and manufacturing is highly desiredKnowledge of lithium-ion battery manufacture, characterization, and failure analysisComfortable with a “hands-on” approach to getting things doneCapable of independently planning and executing complex and long-term work initiativesAbility to clearly and confidently communicate through oral and written modesAbility and willingness to keep meticulous written and electronic records of experimental activityAbility to think creatively and analytically to solve technical issuesExperience with DOE (Design of Experiments) methods and Minitab softwareExpertise in one or more advanced analytical techniquesA123 is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer