Senior Research Chemist

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Chemist (MSc or PhD) with a strong background in laboratory experimentation, water and electrolyte analysis, and the characterization of solid sorbents, catalysts, and related materials. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience lithium electrolytes stability, process optimization, data interpretation, and scale-up methodologies.

Key Responsibilities

- Develop and optimize laboratory methods and experimental designs for testing and characterizing solid media and electrolytes used in lithium extraction and recovery.

- Set up and manage experimental runs to validate scalability and performance (XRD, ICP-OES/MS, SEM, BET, NMR, FTIR, GC-MS, ion chromatography).

- Analyze and interpret experimental data, ensuring accurate documentation and reporting.

- Prepare technical reports and presentations to communicate findings to the R&D team and stakeholders.

- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to design experiments, troubleshoot bottlenecks, and develop new methodologies.

- Ensure compliance with lab safety protocols and regulatory standards.

Technical Expertise

- Deep understanding of lithium salts (LiPF₆, LiBF₄, LiTFSI, etc.), organic carbonate solvents (EC, DMC, DEC, EMC), and additives.

- Knowledge of electrolyte stability and handling of aged/spent electrolyte streams.

- Strong background in aqueous/organic separations, chelation, precipitation, crystallization, or electrochemical recovery.

- Expertise with ICP-OES/MS, ion chromatography, NMR, FTIR, GC-MS.

- Ability to detect and track impurities (fluorine, organics, transition metals) that affect lithium product purity.

- Hands-on experience with ion-exchange resins, solvent extraction, adsorption, or membrane separations.

- Understanding of selectivity challenges (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ vs. Li⁺).

- Knowledge of process design for battery-grade lithium recovery (Li₂CO₃, LiOH).

- 3-7+ years in lithium-ion battery recycling, electrolyte manufacturing, or lithium refining.

- Process development: designing experiments, troubleshooting separation bottlenecks.

- Safety & regulatory knowledge: handling fluorinated salts, HF, flammable solvents, and waste streams.

The following skills will be considered an asset

- Prior patents or publications in lithium extraction, electrolyte recycling, or separations.

- Experience with alternative extraction technologies (electrodialysis, adsorption, functionalized membranes).

Company Overview

Litus is the emerging leader in the application of advanced chemistry and nanotechnology for the development of groundbreaking solutions to address some of the world’s biggest energy challenges. The company was formed in 2019 based on research originally conducted at the University of Calgary. Located in the heart of the energy sector, the Litus team is led by an exceptional group of professional chemists, nanotechnologists, and chemical process engineers, as well as experienced entrepreneurial business professionals with a proven track record of success in scientific achievements and scaling new technologies into industrial and commercially successful solutions. Litus is passionate about developing and supporting technology products that inspire its customers and partners to create energy solutions that are more abundant, more accessible, cleaner, safer, and more efficient.

Diversity Statement

At Litus, we are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in our workplace, providing an environment that is safe, supportive, and respectful for all. We value and celebrate individual differences, fostering an environment where every team member can bring unique value to the team. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and success, and we actively work to eliminate biases and barriers to ensure equal opportunities for all.

Place of Work

This position will be based in our facility located in the vibrant city of Calgary, Alberta. The work is in-person.

How to Apply

Apply via Indeed.

Job Type: Full-time

Application question(s):

- What is the year of your most recent MSc or PhD graduation?

Education:

- Master's Degree (required)

Experience:

- Industrial and/or Research: 3 years (required)

Language:

- English (required)

Work Location: In person