Now Hiring
Surface Scientist
Nanoscience Instruments supplies instrumentation to analyze materials and surface properties. We provide a variety of nanoscale microscopy & analysis, as well as nanomaterial synthesis instrumentation to customers across North America. We have a position open for a Surface Scientist to support our nanomaterials and interfaces division:
- Tensiometry: Attension contact angle and surface tension analysis instruments
- QCM-D: QSense Quartz Crystal Microbalance
- Thin Film fabrication: KSV NIMA Langmuir and LB troughs
Position Overview
The Surface Scientist supports both internal research and external customer success through advanced materials characterization, thin film fabrication, and technical instrumentation expertise. With a focus on surface science techniques including contact angle measurement, surface tension analysis, and QCM, you will conduct hands-on experiments, develop application methods, and generate data that inform product performance. A key part of this role involves supporting instrumentation sales by performing product demonstrations, coordinating proof-of-concept testing, delivering training, and providing pre and post-sales technical support. By bridging scientific insight with practical applications, you will help customers optimize processes and make informed purchasing decisions.
Job Type
Full Time
Schedule
M-F | 8-hour shift
Work setting:
In-person (with travel)
Key Responsibilities:
Contract Research
- Design and execute experiments related to surface science and materials characterization, including techniques such as contact angle measurement, surface tension analysis, QCM, and thin film fabrication.
- Develop, document, and optimize application methods and standard operating procedures for internal research and client-sponsored projects.
- Prepare and analyze samples using relevant techniques to evaluate material properties and performance.
- Interpret experimental data and translate results into actionable insights for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Collaborate with clients to define project scope, timelines, and deliverables, ensuring alignment with research objectives and application needs.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and manage instrument calibration, troubleshooting, and vendor coordination.
- Generate high-quality technical reports and presentations to communicate project outcomes and recommendations.
- Support quality management and documentation practices to ensure traceability and compliance.
Applications & Technical Support
- Provide expert-level support for materials characterization instruments and surface science tools, including contact angle goniometers, tensiometers, QCM systems, and related platforms.
- Conduct product demonstrations, user training sessions, and method development for prospective and existing customers across North America.
- Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to develop application-specific content, proof-of-concept data, and customer-facing materials.
- Deliver pre-sales and post-sales technical support, including virtual demos, site visits, application notes, and troubleshooting assistance.
- Act as a liaison between customers, product teams, and suppliers to support system integration and customized application needs.
- Represent the company at technical workshops, conferences, and trade shows to showcase product capabilities and emerging applications.
- Maintain strong product knowledge across a range of materials instrumentation and stay current with trends in surface science and thin film technologies.
- Capture customer feedback to inform product development and contribute to continuous improvement of application support strategies.
Qualifications
- Education: PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Engineering or related area
- Experience: Proficiency with Surface Science Analytical techniques
- Experience: Familiarity with QCM-D or Tensiometry a plus
- Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities: Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Travel: Ability to travel domestically and internationally
- Certification/Licensure: This position requires access to Government, Military, and other high security labs, US Citizenship is required
Why Join Us?
- Collaborate on impactful, interdisciplinary projects across the research and industrial landscape.
- Balance hands-on lab work with dynamic customer interaction.
- Work in a flexible, supportive hybrid environment with access to cutting-edge instrumentation.
- Grow with a company that values scientific integrity, innovation, and team development.