Computational Polymer Scientist

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

Position Overview

In this role, you will perform theoretical and computational research on the dynamics and rheology of covalent adaptable polymer networks tailored for critical Department of War (DoW) applications. You will work at the interface of chemistry, physics, and computer science, collaborating closely with leading experimentalists and academic partners to translate molecular-level design into macroscopic material predictions in support of established research objectives and under the guidance of senior technical staff asneeded.

Key Responsibilities

• Scientific Research: Conduct research investigating the structural dynamics, viscoelasticity, and rheological properties of dynamic, covalent adaptable networks in support of established research objectives and technical approaches
• Code Development: Develop and implement custom Python-based software and algorithms for GPU-accelerated rheology predictions by applying established computational approaches and modifying existing methods as needed.
• Simulation & Modeling: Utilize molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and theoretical polymer physics frameworks to model network behavior using established methodologies and guidance from senior technical staff as needed.
• Collaboration: Collaborate as a computational team member, coordinating closely with experimental chemists, materials scientists, and academic collaborators to integrate computational results with experimental findings.
• Project Communication: Support project milestones, present findings to stakeholders, and draft high-quality technical reports and peer-reviewed publications in collaboration with senior researchers and project team members.

Required Qualifications

• This position involves working within a government facility and requires U.S. Citizenship.
• Master's degree in physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related field.
• Theoretical background in polymer physics and polymer networks.
• Hands-on experience executing and analyzing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.
• Strong programming proficiency in Python for code development.
• Demonstrated critical problem-solving skills and a proven track record of research via publications.
• Excellent verbal, written communication skills for active cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related field.
• Experience with GPU-accelerated computing frameworks (e.g., CUDA, CuPy, or GPU-enabled LAMMPS).
• Familiarity with standard molecular dynamics packages (e.g., LAMMPS, GROMACS, HOOMD-blue, ESPResSo).
• Prior experience modeling dynamic/reversible covalent chemistries (such as vitrimers or self-healing polymers).

Clearance Level

No Clearance

The salary range for this role is:
$88,500 - $135,000

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

ITAR

U.S. Citizenship required