Surface and Interfacial Scientist - Tribology & Surface Chemistry
Core
Conduct applied research and technology development on spacecraft materials, focusing on interfacial phenomena, tribology, and surface chemistry to support national security space programs.
Role type
Senior IC Surface and Interfacial Scientist (Materials Science)
Builds
Surface characterization data and scientific insights for spacecraft and launch vehicle systems
Domain
Aerospace / Space Systems / Surface Science
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
Surface characterization, Surface engineering, Tribological materials expertise, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Laboratory test equipment development, Peer-reviewed publication record
Preferred skills
Contact mechanics, Mechanical systems analysis, Adhesion and adhesives, High vacuum systems, LabView, Python
Technologies
XPS, AFM, LabView, Python
Responsibilities
Perform fundamental and applied studies of spacecraft materials focusing on interfacial phenomena, Develop and apply subject matter expertise in surface characterization, Conduct and lead investigations utilizing XPS techniques, Collaborate with technical experts across interdisciplinary projects, Develop scientific capabilities to address National Security Space program needs, Present research results in reports, journal articles, and verbally
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC