Portfolio Company Job Board

Find a job at one of our innovative portfolio companies
Sands Capital
companies
Jobs

R&D Electrochemist

PolyJoule

PolyJoule

Billerica, MA, USA
Posted on Mar 22, 2025

About PolyJoule, Inc.

PolyJoule, an MIT spinoff based in Boston, is pioneering conductive polymer battery technology using non-metallic, rare-earth-free polymer supply chains. We develop ultra-safe, sustainable, long-life, low-cost battery energy storage systems.

Job Description

PolyJoule has an available full-time position in the field of Electrochemistry and Cell Engineering. Candidates should hold a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, electrochemistry, materials science, or a related field, with hands-on experience in electrochemical cell and battery testing and construction. This position requires both independent and collaborative work, focusing on experimental design, process optimization, and high throughput testing and analysis. The role is based in Billerica, MA, and requires in-person attendance.

Responsibilities

  • Participate in the full battery development process, including material synthesis, characterization, cell fabrication (pouch), and electrochemical performance testing.
  • Design and optimize electrochemical cells, including analyzing anode, cathode, and electrolyte formulations.
  • Conduct cell testing using off-the-shelf and custom hardware/software systems for energy storage analysis.
  • Collaborate with R&D chemists to improve chemical engineering techniques and material synthesis.
  • Optimize electrode formulations and test new materials.
  • Evaluate binders and conductive additives for optimal electrode quality.
  • Assess additives to ensure appropriate slurry properties (consistency, viscosity, homogeneity) for manufacturing.
  • Fabricate electrodes.
  • Fabricate cells manually and with automated equipment.
  • Use Python to develop data collection and analysis tools.
  • Work with vendors and suppliers to select, source, and evaluate raw materials.
  • Contribute to other tasks and projects supporting the team.

Qualifications

  • B.S. or M.S. in chemistry, chemical engineering, electrochemistry, materials science, or a related field.
  • 1+ years of experience in battery chemistry, including cathode, anode, electrolyte materials, and/or battery cell testing.
  • Strong foundation in non-aqueous electrochemistry, organic chemistry, solid-state chemistry, interfacial chemistry, or corrosion science.
  • Experience with Li-ion batteries, including experimental skills in material and cell characterization (e.g., battery cyclers, glove boxes, EIS). Strong understanding of battery chemical processes and mechanisms from formation to end of life.
  • Familiarity with electrochemical characterization techniques, including cyclic voltammetry, potentiometry, constant current/potential methods, galvanostatic charge-discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
  • In-depth understanding of electrochemical transport phenomena and battery testing protocols.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and modeling tools (Python) for quantitative data analysis and visualization.
  • A passion for working in a dynamic startup environment with a focus on critical thinking and innovative problem-solving.
  • Strong attention to detail, problem-solving, organizational, documentation, communication, and presentation skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to analyze and draw conclusions from large datasets.
  • Ability to integrate solutions into the product development cycle.
  • Experience with spectroscopy and other quality control techniques is a plus.

PolyJoule offers an exciting opportunity to work on groundbreaking battery technology in a dynamic, innovative environment. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels valued and respected.