Research Specialist I - Department of Physics and Astronomy

Clemson is calling...are you ready to answer the call?

One of the most productive public research universities in the nation, Clemson University attracts and powerfully unites students, faculty and staff whose greatest desire is to make a difference in the lives of others.

Clemson has recently been named a top 25 public college in the country by the Wall Street Journal, a top South Carolina employer by Forbes and a Military Friendly Employer for five years running. Through our research, outreach and entrepreneurial projects, Clemson University and its employees are driving economic development and improving quality of life in South Carolina and beyond.

So,... are you ready?

Trained materials scientist with chemistry background to advance battery R&D at the Clemson Nanomaterials Institute. Duties include experimental tasks related to electrode active material synthesis, slurry formulation, battery electrolyte, battery pouch cell fabrication, testing and evaluation to meet US Army's need for energy storage. Innovate better electrode active materials and slurry compositions via smart chemistry.

20% - Essential - Synthesize battery electrode active material and electrolytes. Based on a literature survey, and previous experience develop synthesis protocols for battery electrode active material and the best slurry formulations. Perform thorough spectroscopic and microscopic characterization of the developed materials.

20% - Essential - Use the doctorblading and/or spray coating method to prepare coated electrodes and prepare coin and pouch cells that meet US Army's need to function under extreme temperatures ranging from 105 degrees C to -45 degrees centigrade (a.k.a extreme batteries).

20% - Essential - Test and evaluate battery performance. The tests include the cycling data, electrochemical impedance spectroscopic data, and the current-voltage data.

20% - Essential - Build multi-layer pouch cells and battery modules for the US Army. Based on the experimental outcome of the above tasks, identify the best electrode and electrolyte compositions for the extreme batteries.

20% - Essential - Guide graduate students with their battery research projects. Provide related publications to students and help them troubleshoot experiments, if any.

Education - A high school diploma and work experience in a clinical or research setting

Work Experience 0+ years

Education - 1st Doctoral / Professional Degree - Materials Science with a strong Chemistry background

Work Experience 1+ years in slurry formulations, synthesis techniques, colloids, suspensions, and slurry formulation

JOB KNOWLEDGE
Comprehensive Job Knowledge - Comprehensive knowledge of theories and practices and ability to use in complex, difficult and/or unprecedented situations

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervises Student Workers only - Supervises Student workers only

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES
No Budget Responsibilities - No fiscal responsibility for the department's budget.

10% - Stand for prolonged period
15% - Sit (stationary position) for prolonged period
5% - Walk or move about
10% - Use hands or feet to operate or handle machinery, equipment, etc

5% - Exposure to heat or cold
5% - Noise
20% - Chemical hazards
20% - Electrical hazards

Standard hours: 37.5

Approximate dates of this temporary assignment: June 2026 through May 2027

Anticipated Salary Range: $37,200 - $40,000

Salary is dependent upon several factors including, but not limited to, a candidate's previous experience, knowledge, skills and performance in accordance with Clemson's compensation guidelines.

Normal Operations

Required to follow emergency facility closure directives, and not normally expected work on-site during emergency situations.

Clemson, SC

May 11, 2026 at 11:59pm EST

MILITARY EQUIVALENCY:
Clemson University is proud to allow educational equivalency for military technical certifications and trainings that directly relate to the job duties.

VETERAN PREFERENCE:
South Carolina is making our Veterans a priority for employment in state agencies and institutions.

State policy for veteran preference states that for qualifying, full-time permanent positions, a veteran applicant may receive preference if they meet the job's minimum qualifications, were discharged under honorable conditions from the military, and submit their DD-214 for confidential review by the Office of Human Resources.

To claim Veteran Preference for qualifying positions, email hrjob@clemson.edu upon submission of your application.

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.