R&D Scientist Lead - Lilliput Technologies

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

At Lilliput Technologies, we are pioneering nanotechnology-based tools to drive sustainable agriculture and effective climate adaption. Our work exists at the intersection of nanotechnology, plant biology, chemistry, and engineering, aiming to revolutionize agriculture through innovative solutions that enhance plant growth, stress tolerance, and resource efficiency. We are a highly creative and dynamic team looking forward to joining forces with talented and ambitious individuals to help us achieve our mission.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The R&D Scientist Lead will drive innovative research initiatives and design nanoparticle formulations to enhance resilience against environmental stresses in agricultural systems. This role demands expertise in synthetic chemistry and material science, with a focus on developing photoactive nanomaterials that promote plant growth, improve stress tolerance, and increase resource efficiency. The successful candidate will also contribute to intellectual property development by identifying novel applications for these nanomaterials.

In this role, the R&D Scientist Lead will manage project development remotely while collaborating closely with the operations team to achieve technical milestones. The scientist will oversee the synthesis and characterization strategies of formulations using advanced analytical techniques, ensuring quality control throughout the project's lifecycle. Additionally, the role will involve working with interdisciplinary consulting teams, including plant biologists and agronomists, to tailor formulations to specific agricultural needs.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Nanoparticle Formulation Design and Development:
• Lead the design and synthesis of nanoparticle formulations to enhance plant resilience against environmental stresses.
• Utilize strong chemical synthesis skills and in-depth knowledge of material properties to drive innovation in formulation strategies and contribute to intellectual property development.
• Oversee nanoparticle characterization using techniques such as DLS, SEM, TEM, NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis, XRD, Zeta Potential Analysis, and thermal analysis (TGA, DSC) to evaluate size, morphology, surface charge, and stability.
• Remote Project Leadership and Strategy:
• Lead R&D efforts in establishing technical milestones, monitoring timelines, and adjusting plans to achieve project objectives while ensuring quality control and standardization.
• Investigate aberrant results, determine root causes, and recommend actionable plans.
• Prepare scientific reports and experimental protocols, providing technical guidance on formulation methodologies and related issues.
• Analyze experimental data to identify areas for improvement and develop progress reports and technical documentation.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
• Collaborate with plant biologists and agronomists to tailor nanoparticle formulations to meet specific plant needs and environmental conditions.
• Engage with the internal and external scientific community to maintain state-of-the-art knowledge, facilitating successful experimental outcomes.

Requirements

TRAINING

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Nanotechnology, or a related field.
• Relevant postdoctoral training and/or industrial experience are a plus.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Hands-on experience with nano-materials synthesis and characterization techniques, including DLS, UV-Vis, Photoluminescence, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, TEM, SEM, NMR, FTIR, and MS.
• Strong understanding of nanoparticle fundamentals, including stability, surface modification, and interactions with additives
• Demonstrated ability to establish new capabilities and innovative strategies in pursuit of scientific excellence.
• Experience with supervision, mentorship, or management of other team members
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and achieve outstanding scientific results

Preferred:

• Experience with photoactive materials, including knowledge of their synthesis, characterization, and applications in fields such as photovoltaics, photocatalysis, or optoelectronics.
• Experience in developing and implementing  nanotechnological solutions for agricultural applications.
• Hands-on experience working with plants in laboratory or field settings, especially in areas such as plant physiology, photosynthesis, or stress responses.

Benefits

BENEFITS

We offer the opportunity to apply your skills to solving some of humanity’s most pressing problems threatening our every day food supply and livelihoods. We offer competitive compensation commensurate with your qualifications (including equity). You would be able to work from anywhere in the world with flexible hours. Willingness to travel to Costa Rica several times a year would be considered a plus.