Principal Materials Scientist
About Luna Labs
Luna Labs is a product development company working with leading organizations and key government agencies to create unique solutions for complex challenges in defense, industrial, and healthcare markets. We operate like a self-contained incubator for defense and biotech startups, taking solutions from concept through development to new products in the market.
We leverage small business agility and large business capabilities to accelerate breakthrough solutions from concept to early-stage growth. Working with a robust global network of manufacturers, suppliers, licensees, and distributors, Luna Labs develops everything from small-scale prototypes to market-ready products.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a creative and versatile Principal Materials Scientist to lead cutting-edge research focused on developing practical and novel materials solutions in polymer and nanocomposite materials for coatings, adhesives, sealants, and reinforced composites. Success in this position requires a blend of deep technical expertise, entrepreneurial thinking, and strong leadership capabilities. We're looking for a self-starter who thrives in ambiguous environments and excels at generating new strategic directions. You will identify emerging opportunities, secure funding, mentor technical staff, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and guide technologies from initial concepts to market-ready solutions.
Primary Responsibilities
Technical Leadership & Project Management
- Lead and execute R&D projects including setting project direction and managing technical milestones, reports, deliverables, budgets
- Generate innovative ideas and identify technology opportunities that address significant customer needs
- Drive project progress through regular meetings and effective use of management tools (e.g., Gantt charts, OneNote, SharePoint, CostPoint)
- Deliver project updates and technical presentations to internal teams and external collaborators, including government agencies
- Author high-quality proposals to secure research funding
Business Development & Commercialization
- Develop and execute funding strategies to support technology development initiatives
- Build and maintain relationships with customers, government stakeholders, and strategic partners
- Lead the development of new technologies into product concepts, prototype design, and commercialization to transition to government and commercial customers
Team Development
- Mentor and train technical staff, fostering professional growth and technical excellence
- Participate in supervisory responsibilities and team leadership activities
Required Qualifications & Skills:
- Education: Ph.D. or Masters Degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science or related field
- Experience: 3+ years in laboratory research, proposal writing, and program management
- Demonstrated knowledge in one or more of the following areas: paints and coatings, polymers, synthetic fibers, textiles, multifunctional composites, nanocomposite materials
- Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
- Outstanding organizational and problem-solving capabilities
- Due to government contracting regulations, U.S. Citizenship is a firm requirement.
Strongly Desired:
- Familiarity with federal grant/contract mechanisms (e.g., SBIR/STTR programs) and transitioning technology into dual-use (government and commercial) markets
- Demonstrated track record of taking lab-scale formulation/material concepts to pilot scale, validated prototypes, and commercial product lines
Work Environment
- This role is based in Blacksburg, VA
- Occasional travel to client sites, conferences, or related events may be required
- Duties may occasionally be completed remotely using secure company equipment and software, at the supervisor's discretion.
- Safety & PPE: Strictly follows environmental health and safety (EHS) guidelines; requires wearing standard PPE (safety glasses, gloves, lab coats, and respirators when needed)
- Lab Operations: Involves hands-on research and technical interaction with lab staff, operating thermal/mechanical equipment, and handling of various chemicals (polymers, solvents, resins, adhesives, and powders) in fume hoods
- Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for multi-hour periods during experimental runs, perform fine-motor lab procedures, and occasionally lift or move equipment/materials up to 40 lbs.
What We Offer
Salary Range: $85,000
- - $100,000 annually, depending on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Opportunities for professional development and continued education
- Collaborative, innovation-focused work culture
