Polymer Chemist

22h22 hours ago

Focused Energy

Darmstadt, DE · Full-time · €85,000 – €120,000

About this role

Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy using laser-induced inertial fusion. We are seeking a skilled and driven Polymer Chemist to drive the development and production of advanced polymer-based components essential to laser-driven fusion targets. Your work will enable precision manufacturing at the micro- and nanoscale.

You will lead the research, formulation, and synthesis of advanced polymers tailored to high-precision fusion targets, including surface coatings, porous structures/foams, and encapsulation layers. Apply and develop photoinduced polymerisation methods for precision control of micro- and nanostructures. Utilize sol-gel chemistry and polymeric foaming techniques to engineer materials meeting exacting optical, thermal, and mechanical requirements.

Lead R&D projects across the full lifecycle from fundamental formulation to process optimization and integration into target production. Collaborate closely with physicists, engineers, and sub-teams within the Targetry group to define material requirements and ensure alignment. Translate research into scalable production processes for high-throughput, sub-micrometer-precision manufacturing.

Thrive in an interdisciplinary environment shaping the future of clean energy. Enjoy leading projects, mentoring a small growing team, and contributing deep expertise to novel materials and surface structures. Be part of a cutting-edge company with renowned founders working on groundbreaking fusion research.

Requirements

PhD in polymer chemistry, materials science, physical chemistry, or a related field, and at least 5 years of hands-on experience in the synthesis, formulation, and development of polymer materials
Deep expertise in photoinduced polymerisation and polymeric surface coatings, translatable into reproducible, scalable processes for high-precision applications
Experienced in developing polymeric foams and working with sol-gel techniques to create functional materials and complex structures
Independently select and evaluate suitable polymers and formulations based on specific performance requirements and constraints, including optical and thermal properties
Scientific mindset and data-driven approach to experimental work, including statistical design of experiments, critical evaluation of results, and continuous optimization
Led R&D projects and enjoy taking full ownership from concept to production while mentoring a small team
Thrive in interdisciplinary environments and collaborate with engineers and physicists to translate requirements into effective material solutions

Responsibilities

Lead the research, formulation, and synthesis of advanced polymers tailored to high-precision fusion targets, including surface coatings, porous structures/foams, and encapsulation layers
Apply and develop photoinduced polymerisation methods for precision control of micro- and nanostructures, enabling reliable and reproducible production
Utilize sol-gel chemistry and polymeric foaming techniques to engineer functional materials meeting optical, thermal, and mechanical performance requirements
Lead R&D projects across the full lifecycle from fundamental formulation to process optimization and integration into target production
Work closely with sub-teams within the Targetry group to define material requirements and ensure alignment between design, fabrication, and performance testing
Translate research into scalable and reliable production processes for high-throughput, sub-micrometer-precision manufacturing
Ensure robust experimental design and thorough data analysis to drive reliable, evidence-based decisions

Benefits

Innovative Technology & Mission: Be part of a cutting-edge company working on groundbreaking research in clean energy and scientific discovery
Career Development: We invest in our people