Research Chemical Engineer

Research Triangle Institute - Durham, NC

Full-time

Durham, NC

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

Technology Advancement & Commercialization (TAC) at RTI International is seeking a highly motivated Research Chemical Engineer for its Direct Air Capture (DAC) research program at RTI headquarters in Research Triangle Park, NC. This position is integral to the expansion of research programs concerning Direct Air Capture, Carbon Negative technologies, Capture, Utilization, and Sequestration. The ideal candidate will demonstrate competencies in experimental development, testing, and demonstration of novel DAC and/or Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies. The role involves process simulation, cost analysis, life cycle assessment, and social assessment of DAC and/or CCUS value chains. The candidate will be responsible for reactor design, optimization, and sizing using phenomenological and/or Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, as the candidate will need to interpret and analyze simulation and experimental results effectively. Additionally, the successful candidate will initiate and develop funded research projects in Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) in collaboration with multidisciplinary groups in the field. Working in interdisciplinary teams that include both experimentalists and modelers is a key aspect of this role. RTI is committed to innovation, talent development, collaboration, and inclusivity, and seeks individuals who align with these values. If you are passionate about research in the field of Carbon Dioxide Removal and have the necessary qualifications, we encourage you to apply and experience the RTI Difference.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the expansion of research programs concerning Direct Air Capture (DAC) and Carbon Negative technologies.
• Conduct experimental development, testing, and demonstration of novel DAC and/or CCUS technologies.
• Perform process simulation, cost, life cycle, and social assessment of DAC and/or CCUS value chains.
• Design, optimize, and size reactors using phenomenological and/or CFD methods.
• Analyze and interpret simulation and experimental results with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Initiate and develop funded research projects in Carbon Dioxide Removal in collaboration with multidisciplinary groups.
• Work effectively in interdisciplinary teams involving experimentalists and modelers.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemical/Mechanical Engineering, Applied Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related disciplines with a focus on reactor and process design and development.
• Strong motivation and passion for research in Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR), CCUS, decarbonization, and carbon management.
• Proven ability to perform multidisciplinary research and contribute to funded research programs.
• Experience in planning, sourcing, and developing new initiatives and ongoing research activities.
• Ability to identify and fulfill academic writing requirements for developing proposals, reports, and scientific publications.
• Demonstrated understanding of operational requirements for successful research projects and managing time and resources.
• Good English communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work both as part of a team and independently.