Director, Research and Development (R&D) - Texpower Ev Technologies : Job Details

Company Overview

TexPower spun out of the University of Texas at Austin and established its headquarters in Houston, TX in 2020, continuing the disruptive innovations led by Profs. John B. Goodenough and Arumugam Manthiram on lithium-ion batteries. We aim to deploy cobalt-free, high-performing, cost-competitive cathode materials in lithium-based batteries used across North America and beyond. Our manufacturing site in Houston, TX focuses on development, optimization, and production of IRA compliant cathode active materials for a fast-growing North American market. Join our team to make a significant impact and help us develop products for electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and more!

Job Brief

We are looking for a Director, R&D with extensive technical expertise, industry knowledge, and leadership experience to oversee materials research and product development. They will report to the Chief Technology Officer and work closely with company leadership at the forefront of developing industry-leading, U.S. made, cobalt-free battery cathode materials for electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Establish and oversee an overarching materials research and product development plan including technical milestones, budget, and timeline for completion.
• Work with our partners, consultants, and customers to improve existing products and develop new products that align with company's long-term vision.
• Develop and implement testing protocols and data analysis to validate deliverables and leverage applied statistics software.
• Interface with operations team to run research projects and manage research facilities including equipment, consumables, and chemicals.
• Drive Intellectual Property (IP) development in relevant areas (e.g., composition, morphology, structure, performance, process) working with internal patent team and external consultants and counsel.
• Arrange recurring meetings discussing latest materials research and product development trends in industry with the executive team and interested colleagues.
• Communicate regularly and promptly with the executive team on risks, challenges, achievements, and milestones.
• When applicable, recruit key personnel and grow the company R&D department.
• When applicable, interface with company equipment team to assist equipment procurement and commissioning.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or similar.
• 6 years or more industry experience in relevant fields.
• Record of publications such as journal articles, patents, and conference presentations.
• Leadership experience in working with company executives and stakeholders, and cross-functional teams.
• Cross-functional project management experience involving budget control, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• In-depth knowledge of cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries including fundamental composition-morphology-structure-performance relationships and various synthesis processes.
• Experience in developing and implementing testing protocols, quality control measures, and data analysis methods. Experience in using applied statistics software (e.g., design-of-experiments).
• Familiarity with Intellectual Property (IP) development and collaboration with legal teams on patenting processes.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).

Preferred Qualifications

• Full working proficiency in the Chinese language.
• Experience in electrolytes and other components for lithium-ion batteries.
• Experience in process equipment for materials synthesis.

Why TexPower?

• Be at the forefront of cutting-edge battery technology innovation.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast-growing startup.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment.

Compensation

Competitive pay based on experience, starting at $150K per year.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Stock package
• Medical insurance
• Life insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid vacation

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $150,000.00 per year

Ability to Relocate:

• Houston, TX 77041: Relocate with an employer provided relocation package (Required)

Work Location: In person