Lead Scientist – Materials and Metallurgical Modeling

GE Renewable Energy Technologies • Full-time • Bengaluru • 6d ago

Job Description Summary

As a Lead Scientist in Materials and Metallurgical Modeling at GE Vernova Advanced Research Center in India, you will contribute to advancing materials design and selection and understanding for the products of GE Vernova Businesses. Working within a vibrant R&D environment, you will apply cutting-edge materials modeling techniques - such as atomistic simulations (e.g., ab-initio, molecular dynamics), mesoscale modeling (phase field, Monte Carlo simulations), and CALPHAD-based thermodynamic simulations - to tackle complex problems in alloy design, microstructure-property relationships, and materials selection for energy applications. This role will focus on modeling and predictive approaches to optimize materials performance, complemented by experimental insights, in areas like high-temperature behavior, surface degradation, and corrosion resistance.

Job Description

Roles and Responsibilities
Conduct multi-scale materials modeling, including atomistic simulations (e.g., VASP), molecular dynamics, phase-field modeling, Monte Carlo, and CALPHAD simulations to support alloy design, microstructural evolution, and materials behavior predictions.
Develop and apply AI/ML data-driven approaches for materials design, integrating modeling results with experimental data for improved materials selection and performance under demanding energy system conditions.
Develop ideas and concepts, and mature technologies through various readiness levels (TRL), to improve material performance across the entire materials spectrum - metals, advanced alloys, coatings, polymers, composites, ceramics etc.
Work with various GE Vernova Business Teams to understand the business needs in the broad areas of materials and repair technologies.
Collaborate on interdisciplinary R&D projects, contributing insights into alloy/material composition, processing, and performance relationships for high-performance materials.
Support proposal writing, technical presentations, and communication of research findings to stakeholders, both internally and externally.
Participate and contribute on multi-generation technology programs to enable future design advancements, while independently executing tasks leveraging your technical skills
Engage in technical reviews, foster teamwork, creativity, innovation and contribute to knowledge-sharing and skills development across the organization.
Document research findings in technical reports, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications.
Play a key role on the overall Materials play in the energy transition, inclusive of sustainable materials and material circularity.
Required Qualifications
Ph.D. in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or a related field with 3-5 years of postdoctoral or industry experience in materials modeling.
Proficiency in multi-scale materials modeling, including atomistic (VASP or similar), molecular dynamics, phase-field, Monte Carlo, and CALPHAD simulations.
Strong understanding of microstructure-property relationships and thermodynamics, especially for high-temperature and corrosion-resistant alloys.
Strong understanding of conventional and advanced manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing.
Strong understanding of material degradation in metals, polymers and composites
Experience with experimental materials processing (e.g., casting, forging, heat treatment).
Experience in the utilization of characterization techniques (optical, SEM, TEM, XRD etc.), to understand the structure, processing and performance relationships of metallic materials systems. Examples include Steels, Ni-superalloys, Co alloys, Titanium alloys and Refractory alloy systems, as well as hard and soft coatings.
Experience in working on material aspects of manufacturing, repair and inspection technologies
Solid understanding of creep, fatigue and fracture mechanics of materials
Demonstrated ability to communicate technical findings effectively through written reports, presentations, and publications.
Demonstrated ability on IP Landscape and Whitespace Identification
Strong Innovation Mindset
Demonstrated problem solving
Experience working collaboratively within a global R&D team, with a commitment to shared project goals.
Experience in writing proposals and securing funding grants.
Passion and flexibility to adapt to work on new and emerging technologies in the broad areas of materials as applicable to various energy systems - including carbon capture systems, energy storage systems.
Desired Characteristics
Familiarity with data analysis and programming (Python, MATLAB) for developing and automating materials modeling.
Experience of using High Performance Computing (HPC).
Proven track record of scientific publications, showcasing research expertise in materials modeling and alloy design.
Ability to integrate simulation and experimental data for practical material solutions, especially in areas relevant to energy applications.
Adaptable and innovative mindset, capable of working in multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced R&D environment.
Eagerness to engage in continuous learning and adaptability in newer modeling methods, such as casting and forging simulations, working with polymeric materials etc., to broaden expertise in material simulations.
Exposure to modeling of additive manufacturing and other advanced manufacturing processes, including specialty coatings.