ETCH is a startup commercializing a radically new and efficient decarbonization technology for the simultaneous greenhouse gas-free production of hydrogen and solid carbon from natural gas.

Research Scientist positions at ETCH, INC, will work on a range of R&D efforts used in the ETCH Process^TM for natural gas decomposition to hydrogen and solid carbon, spanning basic science questions to at-scale implementation of reactor systems. There is a vast landscape of science questions to resolve surrounding ETCH’s novel and innovative approach to natural gas decomposition and Research Scientists at ETCH will have a unique opportunity to pursue research and development at the cutting edge of carbon materials science and hydrogen chemical engineering.

Specific job duties include but are not limited to design and implementation of experiments, equipment, protocols, models to describe solid carbon formation during natural gas decomposition and associated hydrogen evolution. We are particularly looking for scientists with expertise in one or more of the following areas: (a) carbon materials science, in particular experience with different allotropes of carbon (e.g., amorphous carbon black and graphite) and applications of carbon materials (e.g., in battery or other energy technologies), (b) practical high temperature furnace and reactor design and construction, and (c) materials thermodynamics and kinetics.

This position will report directly to the Chief Technology Officer of ETCH, with whom the successful candidate is expected to work closely. A willingness to tackle multiple diverse projects simultaneously is critical.

Specific duties include:

• Conducting research to develop new and improved processes for hydrogen and carbon production.
• Participating in runs and optimization of ETCH’s Commercial Scale Pilot Reactor.
• Designing, installation of miscellaneous equipment, including the manufacture of physical parts and components.
• Materials characterization using various analytical equipment, especially electron microscopy and characterization of carbon materials.
• Conducting tests and monitoring materials properties throughout the production processes.
• Troubleshooting problems associated with manufacturing processes.
• Mentoring, training, and supervising employees as assigned.
• Maintaining laboratory space following safety regulations and Good Laboratory Practice
• Establishing safety procedures for individuals and groups working with potentially dangerous and combustible chemicals, particularly but not limited to natural gas, hydrogen chloride, carbon powders and metal salts. Maintain standard operating procedures and safety logs.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience:

• PhD preferred with 5+ years' experience in academic or industrial Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or related fields.
• Deep understanding of how fundamental thermodynamics principles inform experimental and technological development.
• Motivated and passionate about developing new technology to enable the clean energy transition.
• Proficiency in machining (preferably CNC mill and lathe), laboratory plumbing, and computer control.
• Knowledge of experimental design, preparation, development of chemical formulations, optimization, testing, scaleup of chemical processes.
• Specific experience with hydrogen synthesis from natural gas, chemical reactor design, inorganic synthesis, materials characterization and nanomaterials would be beneficial.
• Ability to quickly learn and apply new subject matter.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Experience using/maintaining a variety of laboratory equipment including mass spectrometers, mass flow/temperature/pressure controllers, high-temperature controlled-atmosphere furnaces, and the ability to become proficient in new equipment quickly.
• Ability to lead and function as part of a team.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office and data analysis software
• Some experience with Design of Experiments and modeling software COMSOL, ASPEN or Matlab is preferred.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.