Position Title:  Lead Graphene Ink Formulation Chemist, Graphene Biosensors
Department:  Research & Development
Status:  ☒ Exempt: Full Time & Consultants ☐ Nonexempt
Location:  The Hub, 747 SW 2nd Ave. Gainesville, Florida 32601
How to Apply: Please send an email entitled “Lead Graphene Ink Formulation Chemist” with a resume attached to humancapital@identifysensors.com. Please mention how you learned of the job posting and why you think you would be a good fit for the opportunity.

About the Company
IdentifySensors Biologics is a leading innovator in nanotechnology and biotechnology, focused on commercializing a digital diagnostic platform called Check4. Our mission is to make a significant contribution to the diagnostic industry by offering an entirely new method of molecular detection that eliminates the need for amplification—opting instead for direct digital detection of specific gene sequences. We value curiosity, hands-on learning, and a collaborative spirit in our growing team. We pride ourselves on being scrappy and doing what it takes to get the job done.

Position Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Organic Chemist to join our R&D team. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing screen printable graphene inks for biosensor applications. This role involves formulation, characterization, and printed surface chemistry analysis of graphene inks to ensure optimal performance in biosensor devices.

Core Job Responsibilities
Graphene Ink Development:

• Formulate and develop screen printable graphene inks tailored for biosensor applications.
• Optimize ink formulations for properties such as printability, stability, conductivity and adhesion to polymer substrates.

Graphene Ink Characterization:
● Lead comprehensive characterization of graphene inks, including: o Viscosity: Measure and control the viscosity to ensure proper flow and printability.

• Particle Size: Analyze and optimize particle size distribution for uniform dispersion and performance.
• Zeta Potential: Assess zeta potential to ensure stability and prevent aggregation.
• Surface Tension: Evaluate surface tension to enhance print quality and adhesion.

Surface Chemistry Characterization:
● Utilize advanced analytical techniques to characterize the surface chemistry of printed inks:

• X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS): Analyze surface composition and chemical states.
• Raman Spectroscopy: Evaluate structural and electronic properties of graphene.
• Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR): Identify specific functional groups and chemical bonds.
• Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM): Examine surface roughness, texture and morphological features.
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM): Show distribution and morphology of printed layers.
• Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS): Analyze electron elemental composition.
• Contact Angle: Provide insight on degree of hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity.
• Surface Free Energy & Surface Tension: Provide insight on wettability forces related to good adhesion and print performance.

Collaboration & Documentation:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, biologists, quality, supply chain and regulatory to integrate graphene inks into biosensor platforms.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and analyses thoroughly. Prepare technical reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Quality Control & Optimization:

• Implement quality control measures to ensure consistency and reliability of graphene inks.
• Write operating procedures, work instructions and protocols to be regularly followed.
• Continuously optimize formulations based on performance feedback and analytical results.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven experience in the formulation and characterization of advanced materials, preferably graphene or other nanomaterials.
• Hands-on experience with viscosity measurements, particle size analysis, zeta potential measurement, surface tension evaluation and contact angle.
• High proficiency in characterizing materials using advanced spectroscopy and microscopy analytical techniques (XPS, Raman, FTIR, EDS, SEM, AFM etc...)

Skills:

• Experience with biosensor technology and applications.
• Strong familiarity with screen printing processes and equipment.
• Knowledge of electrochemical properties of nanomaterials.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy in data analysis.
• Proficiency in using laboratory equipment and data analysis software.
• Good organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to define research and development road map and proven track record for executing and delivering program outcomes.
• Ability to write test standard operating procedures, work instructions and protocols defining experiments and outcomes.

Keywords:

• Graphene, screen printing, viscosity, particle size, zeta potential, surface tension, contact angle, XPS, Raman

Career Path

• Opportunities for advancement are readily available and include senior chemist roles, quality management, or specialization in a specific aspect of conductive ink technology research and development.
• This role is critical in maintaining the high standards of quality and reliability that our conductive ink products are known for, ensuring they meet both our internal criteria and customer expectations.

This role is full-time and on-site and requires working daily in a laboratory environment located in Gainesville, Florida at the Innovation Hub located at 747 SW 2nd Ave. Selected candidates must adhere to “Good Laboratory Practices” (GLP), safety and handling practices/procedures/protocols. Regular collaboration with other departments including quality, regulatory and supply chain, necessitate effective interpersonal communication.