Senior Application Scientist, Process Chemical Discovery

The role

This person will serve as a scientific bridge between generative chemistry discovery workflows and external partners. They will support the partner-facing validation loop and run generative chemistry workflows to deliver decision-ready shortlists for semiconductor use cases.

What you will do

• Support the partner validation loop as a day-to-day scientific contact.
• Turn partner problems into target specifications, constraints, and qualification criteria.
• Operate generative chemistry discovery workflows and rank candidates.
• Assess predicted compounds for chemical plausibility and use-case fit.
• Assess whether generative and simulation outputs are directionally and qualitatively correct.
• Check lead molecules against process, performance, and EHS constraints.
• Translate partner validation results into actionable technical improvement points.
• Align property targets and reward objectives with partner-defined qualification criteria.

Required qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 3+ years of post-PhD experience (or equivalent) in industrial or applied R&D developing, formulating, or qualifying high-purity performance materials and formulations.
• Familiarity with the performance and EHS specifications that govern qualification of process materials.
• Experience bridging experiment and computation on application-driven projects with external partners.
• Proficiency in Python.
• Familiarity with generative molecular design, high-throughput virtual screening, or ML property prediction for molecules and materials.

Nice to have

• Experience defining qualification protocols or reliability criteria jointly with fabs, OEMs, or chemical supplier
• Direct, hands-on experience with PFAS phase-out or fluorine-free reformulation in a fab or specialty-chemicals setting.
• Working knowledge of semiconductor unit processes (e.g. lithography, etch, CMP, cleaning, thermal management).
• 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
• Mentorship
• 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.