Research Scientist III - Electrochemical Safety Research Institute

The Electrochemical Safety Research Institute (ESRI), of Underwriters Laboratories Research Institutes, is recruiting a Research Scientist III.

In this role, the Scientist conducts experiments, gathers data, develops preliminary findings, prepares written reports, and provides subject matter expertise that supports the research institute.The Research Scientist III works closely with other ESRI leaders and researchers to carry out tests associated with battery safety science and other energy storage systems to ensure all processes are accurate and technically sound.

At Underwriters Laboratories, we wake up every day with a common purpose: to make the world a safer, more secure and sustainable place. Science is in our DNA; we are endlessly curious and passionate about seeking and speaking the truth. We take delight in knowing that our work makes a meaningful contribution to society, and we are proud that our culture is centered on integrity, collaboration, inclusion and excellence. Underwriters Laboratories stands at the forefront of technological advancement, and we are continually challenged to find new ways to foster innovation and positive change. Satisfying? Yes. Exciting? Absolutely!

• Identifies fundamental knowledge needed to enhance UL’s thought leadership and support the strategy of UL.
• Applies intensive and diverse knowledge of engineering technology and systems engineering and safety science concepts to the specific research tasks. Exercises a high degree of judgment in formulating, evaluating, and correlating broad engineering research concepts and guiding the analysis of unique problems and developing new and improved techniques and methods.
• Plan, design, and complete initial and follow-up procedures to test and validate results.
• Lead instrumentation setup and data collection.
• Analyzes laboratory test results to determine trends and develop solutions.
• Oversee day to day lab/field operations.
• Present research results internally and at conferences and workshops.
• Stay ahead of changing technologies in the field by reading journals and scientific publications and attending academic conferences.
• Work with students and research teams.
• Assist with proposal and grant writing.
• Perform other duties as directed.

• Demonstrated general knowledge of electrochemical engineering, energy storage, battery safety and safety of other energy technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain engineering based academic and applied knowledge and skills.
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Advanced data analysis skills.
• Ability to collaborate with academic teams, peers, Research Scientists and other team members in order to complete a project from start to finish.
• Ability to serve as lead author on reports and papers.

Experience and Education Requirements

• Master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science or engineering plus 4 or more years of directly related work experience, or
• PhD in chemistry, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science or engineering plus 2 years of postdoctoral, or equivalent experience.

• Mission: For UL, corporate and social responsibility isn’t new. Making the world a safer, more secure and sustainable place has been our business model for the last 129 years and is deeply ingrained in everything we do.
• People: Ask any UL employee what they love most about working here, and you’ll almost always hear, “the people.” Going beyond what is possible is the standard at UL. We’re able to deliver the best because we employ the best.
• Interesting work: Every day is different for us here as we eagerly anticipate the next innovation that our customers’ create. We’re inspired to take on the challenge that will transform how people live, work and play.
• Grow & achieve: We learn, work and grow together with targeted development, reward and recognition programs as well as our very own UL University that offers extensive training programs for employees at all stages, including a technical training track for applicable roles.
• Total Rewards: All employees at UL are eligible for bonus compensation. We offer a generous 401k matching structure of up to 5% of eligible pay. Additionally, we invest an additional 4% into your retirement saving fund after your first year of continuous employment. We provide Healthcare Reimbursement Accounts and Health Savings Accounts that UL contributes to twice per year! Depending on your role, you can work with your manager on flexible working arrangements. We also provide employees with paid time off including vacation, holiday, sick and volunteer time off.