Job Description

Atoco, Inc. is a startup company founded by the distinguished scientist Prof. Omar Yaghi, the inventor of MOF and COF chemistry. Atoco is currently working on technologies in the fields of atmospheric water harvesting and CO2 capture. Learn more about Atoco.

This position will focus on the integration of various reticular materials into engineered forms for subsequent integration into modules that adsorb CO2 and/or water vapor.

• Develop binder systems for metal-organic frameworks (MOF) and covalent organic frameworks (COF) materials and cast these materials onto surfaces found in devices, such as heat exchangers, plates, air contactors, and similar engineering equipment, without a loss of MOF/COF gas adsorption performance.
• Analyze and optimize the heat-transfer properties of different binder systems to achieve optimum MOF/COF system scale performance.
• Evaluate MOF/COF coatings and structured material stability to various process conditions (temperatures, flow rates, mechanical vibrations).
• Quantify adsorption capacity and rates of MOF/COF coatings and structured materials as compared to pristine MOF/COF materials.
• Examine connectivity between MOF/COF binder formulation and structured material performance.
• Investigate and determine critical parameters to be addressed for commercialization.
• Evaluate, purchase, install, and operate instruments for the synthesis and characterization of materials.
• Analytical techniques may include gas adsorption isotherm measurements, physisorption surface area and pore size analysis, particle size analysis, thermal gravimetric analysis, electron microscopy, moisture content analysis.
• Work closely with other R&D scientists to build and analyze system-level prototypes that incorporate MOF/COF materials.
• Design, plan and develop processes to scale-up technologies from prototype stage to commercial stage, taking into consideration yield, reliability, durability, cost, safety and usability aspects.
• Maintain an electronic notebook detailing all data measured, observations, and steps performed.
• Present and report research results in projects, program reviews and technical committees.
• Contribute to the intellectual property of the company by writing and participating in invention disclosures and/or peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

• PhD in chemical engineering or chemistry from an accredited institution, along with a demonstrated record of achievement in research.
• Prior experience binding adsorbents into structured forms/materials, such as integration of adsorbents into polymers, membranes, films, fibers, pellets, or extrudates.
• Strong research background, including peer-reviewed publications.
• Minimum of 3 years of research experience post the PhD degree.
• Prior industrial experience is a plus.
• Familiar with health and safety procedures in chemistry labs.
• Thrive in a culture that values diversity, collaboration, precision, and learning.
• Strong commitment to operational excellence in the lab, office, and chemical plant environment.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Ability to handle multiple complex projects simultaneously with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Follow procedures with keen attention to details and approach problems with critical thinking.
• A track record of successful scale-up prototypes or experimentation.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• By Email: Send your cover letter and resume to HR@atoco.com and include the Job-ID in the subject.

• On LinkedIn: Visit our LinkedIn page to follow us and use the “easy apply” function and submit a cover letter and your resume in one file