Research Scientist - Modelling

Basic Purpose:

The Research Engineer in Modeling will LEAD by applying your expertise in reaction engineering, kinetics, transport, and data analytics to drive innovation in automotive aftertreatment systems. By joining the Research, Development & Application (RD&A) department within BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions (ECMS), he or she will play an integral technical role in supporting cross-functional teams across catalyst design, testing, and application.

 Roles and Responsibility:

• Analyze and process data from automotive aftertreatment systems testing to derive insights into performance and reaction mechanisms.
• Develop and refine kinetic models that incorporate reaction kinetics, mass transfer, and heat transfer fundamentals to guide catalyst screening, system design and optimization.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including testing,  catalyst design and application —to utilize models in experiment design, validation, and performance optimization.
• Communicate technical findings and insights effectively to stakeholders across the organization.
• Develop and apply machine learning models to complement physics-based simulations and accelerate model-driven innovation

Requirements:

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline, with thesis or research focused on catalysis, reaction kinetics, or chemical reaction engineering. Research experience in automotive emissions control chemistry or related catalysis applications is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience developing and applying kinetic models for catalytic reaction systems (steady-state and transient), integrating reaction kinetics, mass, and heat transfer fundamentals.
• Proficiency in computational modeling and data analysis, including use of Python or similar programming languages.
• Experience with machine learning model development and data-driven methods to complement physics-based modeling (preferred).
• Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional, multidisciplinary R&D teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey complex technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.