Research Scientist II - Fire Safety Research Institute

About the role

UL Research Institutes is seeking a Research Engineer II to join our dynamic team in Columbia, MD. This position plays a key role in the rapid growth of UL as you:

• Identifies fundamental knowledge needed to enhance UL’s thought leadership and support the strategy of UL.
• Documents laboratory procedures, prepares detailed reports, and evaluates technical specifications and factors related to the process or design objectives.
• Identifies and recommends hardware and equipment needed for operations, and equipment for general lab and study specific use.
• Stays ahead of changing technologies in the field by reading journals and scientific publications and attending academic conferences.
• Gathers initial data for projects and works with Research Engineers and Scientists to conduct research.
• Affords assistance with publications.
• Operates independently in the lab/field.
• Affords assistance with data collection and initial analysis.
• Performs other duties as directed.

What you’ll experience working at UL Research Institutes

We have pursued our mission of working for a safer, more secure, and sustainable world for nearly 130 years, embedding conscientious stewardship into everything we do. You’ll work with a diverse team of experts respected for their independence and transparency and build a network, because our approach is collaborative. You’ll have the opportunity to push the boundaries of human understanding as part of a team working to advance the public good.

Professional Education And Experience Requirements For The Role Include

• Demonstrated general knowledge of relevant engineering and scientific disciplines, with the ability to continuously maintain and advance both academic and applied technical expertise.
• Demonstrated ability to operate GC-MS systems—preferably Agilent GC-MS with a Gerstel Autosampler—and to analyze data and support GC-MS method development.
• Demonstrated knowledge for a range of sampling techniques for gaseous, solid, and liquid samples.
• Demonstrated ability to operate a liquid chromatography system and analyze data.
• Demonstrated ability to operate an FTIR and analyze data.
• Knowledge of toxicology and thermal decomposition of materials.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Advanced data analysis skills, including the ability to interpret complex datasets, identify trends, and draw technically defensible conclusions.
• Advanced capabilities in instrument design, system installation, troubleshooting, and programming to support custom research and experimental needs.
• Ability to collaborate with peers and work directly with Research Engineers, Scientists, and other team members to complete a project from start to finish.
• Demonstrated ability to serve as lead author on technical reports and peer-reviewed publications, including coordinating contributor input and ensuring scientific rigor.