Staff Materials Research Scientist, PFAS Alternative Discovery

The role

This person will serve as the scientific bridge between generative chemistry discovery workflows and external partners. They will own the partner-facing validation loop and run discovery workflows to develop PFAS-lean or PFAS-free substitutes for semiconductor manufacturing.

What you will do

• Own the partner validation loop as the primary scientific point of contact.
• Translate partner problems into target specifications, constraints, and qualification criteria.
• Run the discovery workflow and rank candidates for partner validation.
• Apply semiconductor domain judgment to evaluate generative and simulation outputs.
• Validate lead molecules against real-world semiconductor process, performance, and EHS constraints.
• Translate partner validation results into actionable technical improvement points.
• Align targets across internal dataset, computational chemistry, machine-learning, and generative-modeling teams.

Required qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, with deep specialization in semiconductor process materials and/or fluorochemistry.
• 6+ years of post-PhD experience (or equivalent) in industrial or applied R&D developing, formulating, or qualifying semiconductor process chemicals.
• Direct, hands-on experience discovering or evaluating PFAS-lean/PFAS-free alternatives for semiconductor manufacturing and adjacent materials.
• Working knowledge of semiconductor unit processes and performance and EHS specifications.
• Demonstrated ability to lead application-driven engagements with external industrial partners.
• Proficiency in Python.
• Familiarity with generative molecular design, high-throughput virtual screening, or ML property prediction for molecules and materials.

Nice to have

• Direct, hands-on experience with PFAS phase-out or fluorine-free reformulation in a fab or specialty-chemicals setting.
• Experience defining qualification protocols or reliability criteria jointly with fabs, OEMs, or chemical suppliers.
• Track record of publications or patents in semiconductor materials, fluorochemistry, or PFAS alternatives.
• Experience operating within a CHIPS Act or other federally funded R&D program.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience, plus equity and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Generous parental leave.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements.
• Generous PTO.
• Direct exposure to CHIPS Act-funded programs, senior scientific and executive leadership, mentorship, and dedicated learning budgets.

About the company

SandboxAQ is a high-growth company delivering AI solutions that address some of the world's greatest challenges. The company emerged from Alphabet Inc. as an independent, growth capital-backed company in 2022.