Polymer Specialist
Santa Clara, California, United States
Hardware
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Polymer Chemist to join our dynamic team as a key contributor in the development of advanced binder for separator coating and anode binder materials for lithium-ion battery applications. The successful candidate will focus on developing functional separators by coating novel chemistry on polyolefin base membranes and enhancing the energy density and performance of lithium-ion cells through innovative anode binder and its formulations.
Description
- Lead the design, development, and optimization of separator materials for lithium-ion batteries, with a focus on functional separators by specialty coating on polyolefin base membranes.
- Research and develop novel coating techniques to create functional separators that improve battery safety and performance.
- Conduct experiments to synthesize, characterize, and evaluate the performance of separator coatings using various analytical techniques.
- Collaborate closely with multi-functional teams, including materials scientists, engineers, and battery researchers, to integrate novel separator materials and anode binder into battery systems.
- Lead the research and development efforts on anode binder materials to enhance the energy density and performance of lithium-ion cells.
- Design and optimize binder formulations to improve adhesion, conductivity, and stability of anode electrodes.
- Evaluate the performance of binder materials through electrochemical testing and characterization.
- Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to separator and binder materials and their integration within battery systems.
- Stay ahead of with the latest advancements in the field of lithium-ion battery materials and polymer chemistry, and apply this knowledge to drive innovation in separator and binder technology.
Minimum Qualifications
Key Qualifications
- Strong background in polymer synthesis, modification, and characterization techniques.
- Proven expertise in designing and implementing coating processes for polyolefin base membranes, with a focus on functional separator development.
- Experience in developing binder materials for anode electrodes in lithium-ion batteries, including knowledge of binder formulation, electrode processing, and performance optimization.
- Proficiency in a range of analytical techniques such as SEM, TEM, FTIR, XPS, NMR, DMS and electrochemical analysis for material characterization.
- Demonstrated ability to independently plan, implement, and analyze experiments, as well as solve technical challenges.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, both written and verbal, to effectively collaborate within multidisciplinary teams and present findings to collaborators.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a creative mentality to drive innovation in separator and binder materials.
- Experience in battery research and a comprehensive understanding of lithium-ion battery components and performance factors are advantageous.
Preferred Qualifications
Education & Experience
BS and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience
PhD in Polymer Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or Postdoctoral research related to battery materials is a plus.
Additional Requirements
Pay & Benefits
Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. Learn more about your EEO rights as an applicant.