Principal Materials Scientist at Luna Labs USA LLC

Blacksburg, Virginia, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

09 Jul, 26

Salary

95000.0

Posted On

11 Apr, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Materials Science, Polymer Science, R&D Management, Proposal Writing, Project Management, Nanocomposite Materials, Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants, Technical Leadership, Business Development, Commercialization, Mentoring, Strategic Planning, Budget Management

Industry

Defense and Space Manufacturing

Description

Principal Materials Scientist About Luna Labs Luna Labs is a product development company working with leading organizations and key government agencies to create unique solutions for complex challenges in defense, industrial, and healthcare markets. We operate like a self-contained incubator for defense and biotech startups, taking solutions from concept through development to new products in the market. We leverage small business agility and large business capabilities to accelerate breakthrough solutions from concept to early-stage growth. Working with a robust global network of manufacturers, suppliers, licensees, and distributors, Luna Labs develops everything from small-scale prototypes to market-ready products. The Opportunity We are seeking a creative and versatile Principal Materials Scientist to lead cutting-edge research focused on developing practical and novel materials solutions in polymer and nanocomposite materials for coatings, adhesives, sealants, and reinforced composites. Success in this position requires a blend of deep technical expertise, entrepreneurial thinking, and strong leadership capabilities. We're looking for a self-starter who thrives in ambiguous environments and excels at generating new strategic directions. You will identify emerging opportunities, secure funding, mentor technical staff, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and guide technologies from initial concepts to market-ready solutions. Primary Responsibilities Technical Leadership & Project Management * Lead and execute R&D projects including setting project direction and managing technical milestones, reports, deliverables, budgets * Generate innovative ideas and identify technology opportunities that address significant customer needs * Drive project progress through regular meetings and effective use of management tools (e.g., Gantt charts, OneNote, SharePoint, CostPoint) * Deliver project updates and technical presentations to internal teams and external collaborators, including government agencies * Author high-quality proposals to secure research funding Business Development & Commercialization * Develop and execute funding strategies to support technology development initiatives * Build and maintain relationships with customers, government stakeholders, and strategic partners * Lead the development of new technologies into product concepts, prototype design, and commercialization to transition to government and commercial customers Team Development * Mentor and train technical staff, fostering professional growth and technical excellence * Participate in supervisory responsibilities and team leadership activities Required Qualifications & Skills: * Education: Ph.D. or Masters Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science or related field * Experience: 5+ years in laboratory research, proposal writing, and program management * Technical Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge in one or more of the following areas: paints and coatings, polymers, synthetic fibers, textiles, multifunctional composites, nanocomposite materials * Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities * Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills * Outstanding organizational and problem-solving capabilities * Due to government contracting regulations, U.S. Citizenship is a firm requirement. Work Environment * This role is based in Blacksburg, VA * Occasional travel to client sites, conferences, or related events may be required * The role involves working onsite and in a laboratory environment and interacting with technical staff. * Duties may occasionally be completed remotely using secure company equipment and software, at the supervisor's discretion. * Ability to lift and carry up to 100lbs may be required.

Responsibilities

Lead and execute R&D projects while managing technical milestones, budgets, and deliverables. Drive business development by securing funding and transitioning new technologies from concept to market-ready products.