Senior Scientist - Ion Exchange

About the Company

Kunin Technologies is revolutionizing the critical mineral supply chain by implementing advanced separation technologies to capture value from overlooked resources. Utilizing breakthrough mass manufacturable nano-separation systems, the company aims to unlock domestic critical mineral production and reduce waste.

Responsibilities

• Lead ion-exchange resin synthesis, functionalization, and conditioning
• Model resin backbone composition-dependent dimensional stability
• Lead novel resin form factor qualification and stress testing protocols
• Manage column testing programs to optimize mass transfer, breakthrough, regeneration, and leakage control
• Develop novel selective elution strategies from first principles
• Lead joint development programs with novel ligand development partners
• Execute manufacturing scale-up of novel ion-exchange resin media

Requirements

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Polymer Engineering
• At least 5 years of experience in resin chemistry, column science, and hydrometallurgical separations
• Expertise in polymerization, functionalization, and conditioning
• Proficiency in analytical and physical testing including SEM, BET, FTIR, ICP-OES/MS, and TGA/DSC
• Modeling skills in equilibrium, speciation, and kinetic frameworks using MetSim, HSC Chemistry, OLI Studio, or PHREEQC
• Willingness to relocate to Chattanooga, TN
• Flexibility for extended hours during critical project phases