Head of Research

This role is with
NEU Battery Materials , a startup supported by SGInnovate.
Overview
NEU Battery Materials aims to be the largest, cleanest, and most neutral source of recycled lithium globally. The firm developed the world’s first patented electrochemical redox recycling method that only uses electricity and water. This revolutionary approach is paving the way for a more sustainable future in LFP battery recycling.
We are expanding our current scale of operations and are seeking an experienced
Head of Research & Development . This new teammate will play a crucial role in the battery recycling process through development and scale-up to commercialization. Working closely with the Engineering team, this hire will lead, drive, and execute the R&D roadmap in collaboration with the CTO to develop cutting-edge recycling equipment for the advancement of pilots and concepts to scalable, refined commercial products.
Responsibilities
Scientific & Technical Leadership
Set direction and roadmap for the research team, aligning with the company goals and milestones
Work closely with the CTO to manage and shape NEU’s technical strategy
Demonstrated ability to lead and grow high-performing technical teams through clear goal-setting, structured mentorship, and a culture of accountability and trust
Track team progress, troubleshoot challenges and roadblocks, and provide scientific guidance
Drive IP development and maintenance while managing the filing of patents, grant applications, and technical due diligence processes to protect intellectual property
Design, implement, and oversee experiments aimed at enhancing lithium recovery efficiency, purity, and cost-effectiveness in the recycling of LFP batteries
Supervise data analysis, documentation, and reporting to ensure high-quality insights for both internal teams and external stakeholders, including investors, customers, and regulatory bodies
Uphold scientific integrity and reproducibility across all R&D activities, ensuring alignment with NEU Battery Materials' commitment to innovation and sustainability
Process Optimization & Scale-Up Support
Collaborate closely with process engineering team to pilot novel recycling technologies and facilitate the scale-up of laboratory breakthroughs for industrial applications
Identify and troubleshoot technical bottlenecks in the redox recovery process and propose solutions to optimize material recovery and improve process efficiency
Act as a critical bridge between bench research and the pilot line, ensuring seamless translation of R&D innovations into scalable, commercial-ready processes
Requirements
PhD or MS in Electrochemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline
5–15 years of hands-on R&D experience in battery technology, recycling processes, or industrial electrochemistry
Strong foundation in electrochemical principles, including thermodynamics, kinetics, mass transport, electrodeposition, and catalyst preparation techniques.
Proven experience in scaling up lab-scale technologies to pilot or production-level systems
Strong track record of building, managing, and mentoring high-performing research teams
Excellent project management and communication skills, with the ability to engage cross-functional stakeholders and external partners
Entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive approach to experimentation, innovation, and problem-solving in a fast-paced startup environment
Interested candidates may apply directly at:
Seniority level
Seniority level Director
Employment type
Employment type Full-time
Job function
Job function Research, Science, and Strategy/Planning
Industries Chemical Manufacturing, Research Services, and Chemical Raw Materials Manufacturing
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