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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