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Senior Research Scientist, Magnets

sandboxaqUnited StatesAI Simulation
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Salary
$134.4K – $252K
Job type
Full-time
Work mode
Remote
Experience
Senior · 3+ yrs
Posted
21 Sept 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

This role suits a researcher with a strong background in solid-state physics or quantum chemistry who wants to drive computational discovery for next-generation magnet materials in the United States. SandboxAQ is hiring a Senior Research Scientist to join the Magnets team within the Chemical Simulation group located in the United States.

Role Overview

The Senior Research Scientist will focus on developing high-performance permanent magnets that reduce or eliminate the need for rare earth elements. The position involves running atomistic simulations, building machine learning workflows, and collaborating with experimental partners to test predictions. The researcher will report to the Chief Scientist of Magnets and work alongside multidisciplinary teams to advance material formulations for demanding applications.

Key Responsibilities

Execute, analyze, and document density functional theory and multi-scale reference systems to predict material properties across Fe- and Co-based intermetallic systems.
Develop and test computational workflows and machine learning interatomic potentials to enable high-throughput screening of permanent magnet candidates.
Lead data generation campaigns that feed the magnetism-aware Large Quantitative Model.
Connect atomistic simulation outputs to microstructure and process-level predictions to ensure manufacturability.
Collaborate with experimental validation partners to iterate on model predictions through a feedback loop.
Communicate research findings through scientific talks, peer-reviewed publications, patents, and technical presentations.

Requirements

PhD or equivalent experience in Solid-state Physics, Quantum Chemistry applied to Materials Science, or a related field.
Hands-on experience with density functional theory or atomistic simulation.
Strong programming skills in Python and modern scientific-computing practices.
Experience applying machine learning, surrogate modeling, or high-throughput methods to materials problems.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with experimental or cross-functional teams.
U.S. Person status (Permanent Resident or Citizen) due to U.S. Government contractual requirements.

Nice to Have

Specialization in alloys, microstructure engineering, magnetism, intermetallics, or hard and functional magnetic materials.
Three or more years of hands-on post-PhD experience applying density functional theory and atomistic simulation specifically to magnetic, intermetallic, or crystal lattice materials.
Proficiency with simulation software such as VASP, Quantum ESPRESSO, LAMMPS, or ASE.
Experience developing or using machine learning interatomic potentials like MACE, NequIP, Allegro, or FairChem with deep learning frameworks like PyTorch or JAX.
Experience with rare-earth-lean permanent magnet systems and finite-temperature magnetism.
Authorship of publications in peer-reviewed journals or patents in relevant fields.

Skills and Tools

Python
DFT
VASP
Quantum ESPRESSO
LAMMPS
ASE
PyTorch
JAX
MACE
NequIP
Allegro
FairChem
Machine Learning

Salary and Benefits

Salary range of $134.4K to $252K with multiple ranges
Base salary plus equity and performance-based incentives
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with company match and generous parental leave
Flexible hybrid work arrangements and generous paid time off
Dedicated learning budgets and mentorship opportunities

About the Company

SandboxAQ is an independent company that emerged from Alphabet Inc. in 2022, backed by growth capital and leading investors. The organization delivers artificial intelligence solutions and Large Quantitative Models that power advances across life sciences, financial services, navigation, and cybersecurity.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply directly on the official company careers page.

Skills and tech stack

PythonDFTVASPQuantum ESPRESSOLAMMPSASEPyTorchJAXMACENequIPAllegroFairChemDeep LearningMachine Learning

Questions candidates ask

What is the salary range for the Senior Research Scientist position?

The salary ranges from $134.4K to $252K, supplemented by equity and performance-based incentives.

Where is the job located?

The position is located in the United States, with flexible hybrid work arrangements available.

What citizenship or residency is required to apply?

Candidates must be U.S. Persons, meaning they are either Permanent Residents or U.S. Citizens, due to specific U.S. Government contractual requirements.

What educational background is required?

A PhD or equivalent experience in Solid-state Physics, Quantum Chemistry applied to Materials Science, or a related field is required.

What tools and software are mentioned for simulation work?

Mentioned software and frameworks include VASP, Quantum ESPRESSO, LAMMPS, ASE, PyTorch, JAX, MACE, NequIP, Allegro, and FairChem.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official sandboxaq careers page.

Apply on company site