This role will initially support pilot-scale and R&D activities (RTP, NC), with the potential to contribute to commercial plant operations (Benson, NC) in the next year.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with one or more of COMSOL, Fluent, finite element analysis, thermodynamic modeling (FactSage, ThermoCalc), mathematical and image analyses, and density functional theorgy, as well as experience as a people leader.

Responsibilities

Build and manage a matrixed modeling and simulations team with broad expertise spanning Finite element analysis, Computational fluid dynamics, Stress/Strain analysis, thermodynamic modeling, mathematical/image analysis, and DFT; define hiring roadmap, team structure, and capability milestones.

• Translate R&D priorities into a modeling agenda with clear deliverables, timelines, and success criteria in partnership with process engineering, materials science, and production teams.

• Foster a culture of scientific rigor, reproducibility, and rapid iteration; establish standards for model validation, documentation, and peer review.

• Present results and recommendations to technical and executive stakeholders; communicate uncertainty and model limitations clearly.

Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related quantitative field.

• 5+ years of hands-on experience with COMSOL, Fluent, or equivalent; demonstrated ability to build and validate coupled multiphysics models and finite element analysis (FEA).

• Strong mathematical modeling background; experience with image analysis, machine learning, statistical modeling, or signal processing applied to materials characterization data.

• Familiarity with rare earth magnets, NdFeB alloy systems, or related metallic/magnetic materials.

• Experience leading or mentoring a small technical team; ability to set priorities, provide technical guidance, and develop junior researchers.

• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, Git, or equivalents for scripting, data analysis, and model post-processing.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to produce clear technical reports and present complex results to non-specialist audiences.

Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with DFT codes (VASP, Quantum ESPRESSO, or similar) or demonstrated ability to direct and interpret DFT studies.

• Background in rare earth processing, hydrometallurgy, or magnet manufacturing.

• Experience with grain boundary diffusion processes or sintering simulation.

• Familiarity with thermodynamic modeling and databases such as FactSage, or ThermoCalc

• Knowledge of machine learning principles for data analysis

• Familiarity with electron microscopy image analysis (SEM/EDS/EBSD) and quantitative microstructural characterization.

• Publication record in computational materials science, process simulation, or permanent magnets.

• Experience managing budgets, external collaborators, or academic partnerships.