Principal Scientist (EM)

External Job Description

ADVANCED CONCEPTS is an entity within EDGE dedicated to the design and deployment of advanced, innovative technologies. ADVANCED CONCEPTS is fast-tracking the development of high-technology autonomous systems, including three Medium Endurance, High Altitude, fixed-wing unmanned aerial systems, a family of precision loitering munitions, a cost- effective family of cruise missiles, and a range of guided artillery munitions.

Core Accountabilities:
•    Advanced knowledge of composite propellant formulation, focusing on ammonium perchlorate (AP), ammonium nitrate (AN), HTPB binders, and metallic fuels.
•    Expertise in propellant mixing, casting, curing, and associated chemical reactions.
•    Strong understanding of oxidizer-binder-fuel interactions and their effects on combustion characteristics and mechanical properties.
•    In-depth knowledge of rheology and processability of composite propellants, including viscosity control and filler dispersion.
•    Proficiency in characterizing burn rates, pressure indices, and specific impulse performance.
•    Knowledge of curing kinetics, crosslinking reactions in HTPB systems, and plasticizer-binder compatibility.
•    Development of high-energy composite propellant formulations with reduced signature and enhanced safety.
•    Expertise in integrating burn rate modifiers, stabilizers, and additives to optimize performance parameters.
•    Innovation in nano-energetic materials and advanced fillers for higher energy density and stability.
•    Ability to conduct fundamental research into reaction mechanisms and thermal decomposition of composite propellants.
•    Experience in scaling up composite propellant formulations from laboratory prototypes to small-batch production.
•    Understanding of propellant processing techniques, including proper sequencing for mixing, casting, and curing operations.
•    Knowledge of equipment operation and maintenance, particularly for small-batch mixers, vacuum casting setups, and curing chambers.
•    Expertise in conducting mechanical property tests for cured propellant.
•    Proficiency in thermal analysis techniques, such as TGA, DSC, DMA, and thermal conductivity measurements.
•    Capability to perform burn rate testing, strand burning, and ballistic evaluation of composite propellants.
•    Experience with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, such as X-ray and ultrasonic techniques, to identify defects in propellant grains.
•    Expertise in hazard analysis for handling and processing oxidizers, fuels, and additives.

Qualification / Experience

•    Minimum 15 years in Propellant Research and Development and 10 years in a Senior role for a large corporate 
•    Bachelor’s in Chemistry or other related fields, 
•    MSc in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or a specialized area related to Propellant development.
•    Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science , or a specialized area related to Propellant development.