Job Description

This R&D position will be responsible for developing the next generation of battery materials needed to propel the future of Duracell.
Through a combination of applied research, prototyping, characterization, leading project teams and coaching/guiding junior technical staff, the successful applicant will play an integral role in identifying and exploring potential paths forward to develop superior battery materials and battery products. While there will be a focus on developing new materials to drive our primary cell business, the role will also involve a longer-term focus on helping the company determine technical leads and the direction for rechargeables.
In addition to technical leadership, the role will require strong communication, coaching and collaboration skills to facilitate successful project work within/across R&D project teams, as well as leading external collaboration with partners in academia and industry.

This role will be fully onsite in Atlanta, GA but will require training in Bethel, CT. Relocation assistance will be offered if applicable.

• Apply internal and external research to lead the design, execution and analysis of experimental studies to synthesize and characterize new cathode active materials for primary cells and future forms.
• Develop and provide Subject Matter Expertise on how composition, structure and transformations during synthesis may be exploited to customize material properties, improve electrochemical performance and maximize value for specific cell chemistries and cell designs to deliver a competitive advantage.
• Set up and lead collaborative projects with external resources, such as academic institutions, National Laboratories, and other Industry partners to leverage technology, materials and capabilities unavailable within Duracell.
• Communicate progress, outcomes, and recommended next steps on critical projects to key stakeholders in R&D and the wider Global Technical Organization (GTO) on a regular basis.
• Collaborate within R&D, and cross-functionally within the GTO, to identify opportunities where new or improved material technology may enable new business development opportunities for Duracell.
• Identify and implement improved capabilities for in-house synthesis and characterization of prototype materials.
• Explore the use of AI tools to innovate the way we work.
• Through applying insights from a combination of in-house experimentation, published literature, external collaboration, and relevant industry seminars, continue to build Subject Matter Expertise that can be leveraged to lead, coach, and mentor other R&D employees and project teams, and shape our ongoing Materials IP strategy.

• PhD in a scientific or engineering discipline: Materials Science/Engineering or Chemistry preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the Battery/Battery Materials Industry, either in a Corporate R&D or National Research Laboratory environment.
• Experience characterizing chemical, structural and electrochemical properties of Cathode Active Materials via techniques such as XRD, EIS, Cyclic Voltammetry.
• Demonstrated ability to combine Research and Experimental data to determine the path forward for new material development and prototype synthesis work. Able to apply knowledge and data to develop innovative solutions for tough technical challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to lead R&D and cross-functional project teams, including collaborative projects with external companies or academic institutions.
• Experience in coaching and mentoring junior technical staff.

Duracell is the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of high-performance alkaline batteries, complemented by a portfolio of high quality, market leading specialty, rechargeable and professional batteries. Duracell’s products power numerous critical professional devices across the globe such as heart rate monitors, defibrillators, telemetry devices, smoke detectors, fire alarms, automated valves and security systems. As the leader in the professional power category, Duracell has a rich history of innovation, continuously introducing batteries that are smaller, thinner, with more energy and longer lasting than competitive brands. Since March 2016, Duracell has found its permanent home within Berkshire Hathaway (ranked #4 World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune Magazine and #3 in the Fortune 500), and will continue to focus on sustainable growth, industry-leading innovation while creating long-term value for our customers and consumers. At Duracell, integrity, end-to-end accountability across all levels, fast decision-making and a “can do” attitude is highly valued.