Research Scientist – Cathode Materials

Princeton NuEnergy (PNE) is an advanced materials manufacturing and technology company, with the most cost-effective and capital-efficient process for the production of battery-grade cathode active material (CAM) for lithium-ion batteries. Built on a proprietary, closed-loop platform, PNE's high-performing technologies span multiple high-growth materials businesses, including Rejuvenation (Cathode-to-Cathode® direct recycling), Advanced Black Mass™ production, Upcycled® CAM and more — strengthening the domestic battery supply chain and supporting U.S. energy independence and national security priorities.

We are seeking a highly skilled and hands-on Research Scientist to join our New Jersey R&D Center. This role focuses on the cutting-edge synthesis and regeneration of cathode active materials (CAM), specifically targeting NMC and LFP chemistries. You will be instrumental in validating our Direct Recycling processes while also driving the development of virgin cathode material production. Your work will bridge the gap between bench-top innovation and scalable, industrial-grade material performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Cathode Synthesis & Regeneration: Execute hands-on experiments for the synthesis of virgin CAM and the rejuvenation of recycled cathode materials using PNE’s proprietary direct recycling protocols.
• Process Development: Optimize and standardize synthesis routes (including Co-precipitation and potentially Spray Pyrolysis) to ensure material performance, reproducibility, and scalability.
• Material Characterization: Conduct comprehensive physical and chemical characterizations, including SEM, TEM, XRD, and ICP, to evaluate morphology, crystal structure, and elemental composition.
• Electrochemical Testing: Fabricate and test coin cells and pouch cells to evaluate electrochemical performance (capacity, cycle life, rate capability) of synthesized materials.
• Data Stewardship: Meticulously record experimental parameters, material inventories, and testing results to build a robust R&D database for process modeling.
• Root Cause Analysis: Troubleshoot synthesis failures and identify root causes through analytical thinking to iterate on material design.
• Cross-functional Support: Collaborate with the engineering team to translate lab-scale success into pilot-line parameters.

The Ideal Candidate

• Education: Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Experience: 3+ years of post-degree industrial or research experience specifically in Cathode Active Material (CAM) development.
• Technical Mastery:
  • Deep expertise in Co-precipitation synthesis methods is mandatory.
  • Familiarity with Spray Drying/Pyrolysis processes is highly preferred.
  • Proven experience in building and testing Pouch Cells is a significant advantage.
  • Hands-on proficiency with electrochemical workstations and material characterization tools (SEM, TEM, XRD, ICP).
• Mindset:
  • Highly organized with a rigorous approach to experimental design and data collection.
  • Strong problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced, "startup" laboratory environment.
  • Passion for sustainability and advancing the circular economy for lithium-ion batteries.

Physical Requirements

• This is an on-site position in Monmouth Junction, NJ.
• Able to work in the lab environment and wear personal protective equipment, including lab coat, safety goggles, gloves, and/or mask, and respirator as required
• Able to lift & carry 25 pounds
• Prolonged periods of standing and walking
• Has visual inspection capability to assess lab equipment

Princeton NuEnergy, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state, and local law