Catalyst Research Scientist

Syzygy Plasmonics Inc. (Houston, Texas) is a deep-decarbonization company. It builds reactors that use light to electrify and eliminate combustion in chemical manufacturing and power a cleaner, safer world. Utilizing technology licensed from Rice University and advanced engineering developed in-house, Syzygy is commercializing a universal light-driven reactor platform. When powered with renewable electricity, this tunable technology reduces both cost and emissions from many different chemical reactions. Syzygy has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help decarbonize chemicals. And we’re seizing it. Join us.

Job Summary: We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Heterogeneous Catalyst Research Scientist to join our dynamic research team working on developing novel light-activated catalysts with new and improved functionalities for various industrial applications. In doing so, this person will directly contribute towards the development of Syzygy’s revolutionary new technology 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. Come join us and help us change the world for the better!

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and synthesis of new heterogeneous photocatalysts 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 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.

Helpful background:

• 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 CAD.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary
• Comprehensive Benefits (medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage)
• Career growth opportunities
• Friendly work environment
• Paid vacation/holidays

Syzygy Plasmonics Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.