Staff Computational Scientist – Magnetic Materials

About the role

SandboxAQ is seeking a Staff Computational Scientist to lead the Magnets vertical within its Chemical Simulation group. The role will define research strategy, build a top‑tier scientific team, and integrate computational materials discovery, simulation, and AI to develop high‑performance permanent magnets for U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and defense applications.

Key responsibilities

• Own the scientific charter and technical roadmap for magnet development, covering phase stability, magnetocrystalline anisotropy, coercivity, and microstructure engineering.
• Oversee IP generation from generative design outputs and manage a robust IP portfolio.
• Build, lead, and mentor a multidisciplinary team of scientists, computational/ML experts, and postdocs.
• Define magnetism‑aware LQM, data‑generation, and multi‑scale modeling requirements for the AI simulation platform.
• Lead collaborations with national labs, industrial partners, and defense organizations, translating constraints into scientific problems.
• Architect feedback loops between computational modeling and experimental validation to accelerate the DBTL cycle.

Required profile

• PhD in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry or related field with specialization in magnetism or hard magnetic materials.
• 5+ years post‑PhD experience leading magnetic materials programs, preferably in industry or national labs.
• Proven track record of translating first‑principles and ML‑driven models into manufacturable magnet formulations.
• Strong publication and patent record with experience presenting to senior government and industrial audiences.

Required skills

• First‑principles and multi‑scale modeling.
• Machine learning and AI‑driven materials discovery.
• Generative design and IP portfolio management.
• Powder metallurgy, sintering, and heat‑treatment processes.
• Magnetocrystalline anisotropy, finite‑temperature coercivity, and microstructure engineering.

What we offer

• Competitive base salary with equity and performance‑based incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision insurance and 401(k) match.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements and generous PTO.
• Exposure to CHIPS Act‑funded programs and senior scientific leadership.