Prometheus Materials Inc.

Prometheus Materials is developing a zero-carbon algae-based replacement for traditional cement and concrete construction materials.

Prometheus Materials Inc. has developed a zero-carbon alternative to traditional portland cement and concrete. Based on technology developed at the University of Colorado Boulder, this bio-enabled alternative material uses natural algae, sunlight, water and sand to create a replacement for traditional cement and concrete based building materials. After water, concrete is the second most used material on earth. Production of cement and concrete is responsible for generating 8% of annual CO2 emissions world-wide. 

Prometheus Materials is on a mission to eliminate 1 gigaton of CO2 emissions annually. The company recently opened its pilot production facility in Longmont CO where it will produce prototype zero-carbon construction materials. Prometheus Materials was co-founded in 2021 by cleantech entrepreneur and CEO Loren Burnett and four CU professors who are also the inventors of the technology. The technology was developed under a 5-year DoD grant. Prometheus Materials is collaborating with Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (SOM), designer and architect of the world

Position: Materials Scientist

Compensation DOE with benefits available

Department: Technology

Location: Longmont, CO

COMPANY OVERVIEW: Prometheus Materials delivers sustainable building materials that accelerate the world’s transition to a carbon-negative future. Inspired by nature, the company has developed a process that combines naturally-occurring microalgae with sunlight, water, and ambient CO2 to create a bio-cement. When mixed with aggregate, this bio-cement forms a bio-concrete building material that offers the construction industry an ultra-low carbon alternative to carbon-intensive concrete products.  

SUMMARY OF DUTIES: The Materials Scientist will be responsible for advancing and optimizing current bio-cement formulations as well as conceptualizing new commercializable bio-based cement/concrete formulas and products. This person will be a hands-on, self-starter that approaches challenges with unrelenting inquisition and determination. Daily activities for this person will include but are not limited to literature reviews, data analysis, process development, mix design optimization, and formulation. Additionally, the Materials Scientist will provide guided experimentation to advance the materials science in development as well as conceptual explanations of observed experimental outcomes. The Materials Scientist will work closely with the manufacturing department and will report to the Director of Biotechnology.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES:

• • Education: Ph.D. degree in engineering, materials science, or chemistry with 3 years of industrial/start-up company work experience or M.S. degree in engineering, materials science, or chemistry with 8 years of related work experience.
  • Materials Science R&D: Demonstrated ability to excel in industrial and/or start-up company R&D settings where new building materials are invented, improved, and manufactured.

• Formulation Chemistry: Validated ability to understand the underlying organic and inorganic chemistry of building materials, the chemical interactions that can be encountered, and how downstream processes might be affected by the formulation.

• Process Development: Appreciation and capacity to adapt the production of a new material to existing infrastructure and equipment.

• Data Analysis: Experience operating mechanical (hydraulic testing systems, etc.) and analytical (SEM, XRD, TGA, etc.) testing equipment to collect data as well as thorough knowledge of statistical methods for data analysis.
• Leadership: Experience leading engineering or science teams as well as the ability to train and mentor direct reports and interns.
• Awareness: Ability to observe, capture, and analyze unique test specimens.
• Active Communication: Positive, efficient, and clear communication with other personnel and departments; willingness to ask questions and follow up where appropriate.
• Physical Strength: Able to lift up to 50 pounds and repetitively or continuously sit, stand, bend, or reach for periods of up to 10 hours per day.
• Safety: Ensure the physical safety of oneself and one’s co-workers at all times. Follow all safety related guidelines and instructions given by supervisors and co-workers to safely utilize research and/or manufacturing equipment.
• Computer Software: Ability to operate Windows or Mac based PC systems as well as Microsoft and GSuite applications (i.e. Word, Excel, Google Sheets, etc.).

 

PREFERRED COMPETENCIES:

• • Lean: Basic knowledge of Lean Manufacturing practices including 5s, Six Sigma, etc.

• Sourcing: General knowledge with material sourcing for production environments.

• Concrete: Knowledge and/or experience with concrete and masonry construction is a plus.

 

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

Prometheus Materials embraces diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected status. Applications by members of all underrepresented groups are encouraged.

Hourly compensation based on experience. Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits available. Prometheus Materials Inc is an equal opportunity employer.

LONGMONT, Colorado 80501

No Deadline Provided

DOE