Material Scientist – Cancer-Safe Firefighter Equipment Innovation Project (Volunteer)

About the role

We are seeking a Material Scientist with expertise in polymers, textiles, coatings, nanomaterials, bio-materials, or fire-resistant compounds to support our research and development of cancer-safe firefighter equipment. You will work alongside designers, researchers, and community partners to help evaluate existing gear, identify toxic components, and explore safer alternatives.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on materials used in firefighter gear, including PFAS-free alternatives, high-temperature resistant fabrics, composites, and protective coatings.
• Analyze existing cancer risks associated with current firefighter equipment and identify material-level sources of exposure.
• Evaluate performance characteristics of reduced-toxicity materials (durability, heat resistance, breathability, chemical resistance, decomposition behavior).
• Collaborate with MAP’s Thread & Promise design team to support prototyping of safer firefighter gear components (turnout fabrics, gloves, hoods, helmets, liners).
• Recommend materials, composites, or treatments aligned with NFPA safety standards.
• Support laboratory testing plans, simulation frameworks, and third-party testing recommendations.
• Contribute to technical reports, white papers, research briefs, and presentations for stakeholders.
• Participate in virtual research meetings and respond to emails within 48 hours.
• Integrate feedback to refine material concepts and improve research outputs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Textile Engineering, Fire Science, Nanotechnology, or related field.
• Knowledge of fire-resistant fabrics, polymer chemistry, coatings, or high-temperature performance materials.
• Familiarity with toxicity reduction, PFAS-free material development, or occupational exposure science (preferred).
• Ability to analyze scientific literature and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to innovation, public safety, and community-centered impact.

Bonus Skills (Not Required)

• Experience working with PPE or NFPA-certified gear.
• Knowledge of firefighter cancer research or environmental health science.
• Experience with rapid prototyping or design collaboration.
• Background in bio-based, biodegradable, or sustainable material development.
• Prior experience in public health innovation or community-based R&D.

Commitment

Volunteer role, remote or hybrid depending on collaboration needs.
Approximately 5–10 hours per week, depending on research and development phases.
Minimum 6-month commitment preferred due to the technical depth of the project.
Flexible scheduling with weekly or bi-weekly check-ins.

What You’ll Gain

• Opportunity to contribute to a groundbreaking public-health and safety innovation effort.
• Direct impact on improving the lives of NYC firefighters and future generations.
• Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of designers, engineers, scientists, and community partners.
• Lets of letters of recommendation, professional references, and authorship opportunities on research outputs (as applicable).
• A portfolio-ready R&D project with real-world social impact.

Application Process

Interested candidates should apply directly through Idealist.

For any additional questions or concerns, please email us directly at hr@mentorapromise.org