2.1. Research Chemist
Burlington, MA
Phoenix Tailings – 2. Research and Development /
Full Time /
On-site
About Phoenix Tailings
Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly-growing clean mining and metals production startup dedicated to sustainable and economic critical metals production. Our mission is to be the world's first fully clean mining and metals production company, producing the resources needed for the next generation of our economy.
Why Phoenix Tailings
At Phoenix Tailings, we believe that nothing great is ever accomplished alone or without the passion of people who push and motivate one another. If you are someone who shares our relentless pursuit of a better future, passion for innovation, and are excited about working with some of the top innovators in the world, then this is the place for you.
Our Values:
● You are only crazy if you are wrong, it’s ok to be wrong
● Lead with Compassion
● Be Resourceful
● Listen
● Hustle
Who we are looking for:
We are looking for a Research Chemist, you will play a crucial role in the research and development of various processes, products, and applications. This position requires a strong background in chemistry, metallurgy, and materials science, along with a passion for innovation and problem-solving. Your work will contribute to the development of new metal alloys, production processes, and quality improvements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and execute experiments to innovate solvent extraction processes for the recovery and purification of rare earth metals from various feedstocking inclulding ores, industrial waste streams, and recycled materials.
- Utilize advanced analytical techniques, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and X-Ray diffraction (XRD), to characterize rare earth metal concentrations and impurities in feedstocks and extracted fractions.
- Analyze experimental data to optimize solvent extraction parameters, including extractant selection, pH control, temperature, and extraction kinetics, to maximize rare earth metal recovery and purity.
- Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to integrate solvent extraction methodologies into broader research initiatives focused on rare earth metal applications
- Stay abreast of advancements in rare earth metal extraction chemistry through literature reviews, conference participation, and collaboration with industry and academic partners.
- Maintain meticulous records of experimental procedures, results, and observations in compliance with laboratory standards and regulatory requirements.
- Troubleshoot technical challenges encountered during rare earth metal extraction experiments and develop innovative solutions to enhance process efficiency and scalability.
- Ensure adherence to rigorous safety protocols and regulatory guidelines governing chemical laboratory operations, particularly in handling hazardous materials and waste.
- Effectively communicate research findings through written reports, presentations, and contributions to peer-reviewed scientific publications.
- Contribute to the organization's intellectual property portfolio by participating in patent applications and invention disclosures related to rare earth metal extraction technologies.
Qualifications:
- Master's or Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field, with a focus on inorganic chemistry and expertise in rare earth metal extraction techniques, including solvent extraction, ion exchange, and liquid-liquid separation processes.
- Proven experience in designing and conducting experiments for rare earth metal recovery, preferably in an industrial or research setting.
- 2+ years experience in metallurgical engineering within metals production or related sector
- Proficiency in materials characterization tools such as Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS).
- Strong analytical skills for data analysis, utilizing tools like statistical software and data visualization techniques.
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
- Thrives in fast-paced environments, demonstrating adaptability and efficiency in meeting project deadlines and objectives.
We offer a competitive compensation package that is based on expertise. We also offer the following benefits:
- Healthcare, we care about you and your family: 100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Stock: Ownership in a fast-growing venture-backed company.
- Family Focus: Parental leave and flexibility for families.
- Time Off: Flexible vacation policy to encourage people to get out and see the world.
- Team Fun: Regularly scheduled events and celebrations.
- Learning: Learning & Development Opportunities to grow your skills and career.
- Great team: Working with fun, hard-working, kind people committed to making a difference!
- Flexible culture: We are results-focused. We don’t work at the office every day.
At Phoenix Tailings, we have an open culture that values learning, and we are looking to grow the team with enthusiastic individuals who share our vision of sustainable mining.
Phoenix Tailings, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value diversity at all levels. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age, disability or genetic information, or any other applicable protected characteristics, and these characteristics will not be a factor for consideration of any work-related decisions (including but not limited to hiring, firing, compensation, and discipline).
