Job Details
Job Description
At UL, we know why we come to work.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Scientist I/Lab Technician at UL Research Institutes Materials Discovery Research Institute, based in our Skokie, IL labs. The Research Scientist I, under the direction of the Laboratory Manager, will work to facilitate the operation and maintenance of state-of-the-art synthesis and characterization instrumentation to support other groups in the institute to execute the synthesis and characterization of materials.
At UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement (UL), we wake up every day with a common purpose: to make the world a safer, more secure and sustainable place. Science is in our DNA; we are endlessly curious and passionate about seeking and speaking the truth. We take delight in knowing that our work makes a meaningful contribution to society, and we are proud that our culture is centered on integrity, collaboration, inclusion and excellence. UL stands at the forefront of technological advancement, and we are continually challenged to find new ways to foster innovation and positive change. Satisfying? Yes. Exciting? Absolutely!
What you'll learn & achieve:
- Assist research scientists in aspects of materials synthesis and characterization, inventory management and general laboratory maintenance.
- Prepare and handle chemical reagents, compounds, and samples for analysis, ensuring accuracy and safety.
- Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) for experimental protocols, ensuring consistency and reproducibility.
- Assist in the calibration and troubleshooting of laboratory equipment, promptly reporting any technical issues.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including software engineers and data scientists, to support integrated lab processes.
- Participate in the upkeep of the lab environment, including ordering and organizing supplies and maintaining cleanliness and safety.
- Assist in maintaining compliance with safety protocols and industry regulations.
- Perform other duties as directed.
What makes you a great fit: - Fundamental knowledge and proficiency in materials science or analytical chemistry, including the synthesis and characterization of inorganic materials.
- Hands on experience in the operation and maintenance of analytical instrumentation, such as diffractometers, adsorption apparatus, combinatorial automation equipment, spectrometers etc.
- General knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and best practices.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow precise instructions and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
- Problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify root causes, develop practical solutions, and collaborate with colleagues.
- Excellent time and project management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously with the ability to adapt to new challenges quickly.
- Positive and collaborative attitude with exceptional interpersonal skills for effective teamwork across the organization.
- High degree of curiosity to learn about the mission and impact of the organization and its specialized areas.
- Excellent written, oral communication, and presentation skills.
- Ability to thrive in an innovative environment.
Experience and Education Requirements - Bachelor's degree in chemistry, materials chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field of study.
- Hands-on experience in a wet chemistry laboratory.
- Experience in materials synthesis and characterization is preferred.
Learn More: UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement are nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing safety science research through the discovery and application of scientific knowledge. We conduct rigorous independent research and analyze safety data, convene experts worldwide to address risks, share knowledge through safety education and public outreach initiatives, and develop standards to guide safe commercialization of evolving technologies. We foster communities of safety, from grassroots initiatives for neighborhoods to summits of world leaders. Our organization employs collaborative and scientific approaches with partners and stakeholders to drive innovation and progress toward improving safety, security, and sustainability, ultimately enhancing societal well-being.
Our wholly owned subsidiary, UL Solutions, advances our shared public safety mission. We fund our work through grants, the licensing of standards documents and the business activities of UL Solutions, which conducts testing, verification and certification, and provides training and advisory services, along with data-driven reporting and decision-making tools for customers around the world.
To learn more, visit our websites UL.org and ULSE.org.