Principal Scientist (EM)

EDGE Group View all jobs

  • Abu Dhabi
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 3 hours ago
External Job DescriptionADVANCED CONCEPTS is an entity within EDGE dedicated to the design and deployment of advanced, innovative technologies. ADVANCED CONCEPTS is fast-tracking the development of high-technology autonomous systems, including three Medium Endurance, High Altitude, fixed-wing unmanned aerial systems, a family of precision loitering munitions, a cost- effective family of cruise missiles, and a range of guided artillery munitions.Core Accountabilities:
  • Advanced knowledge of composite propellant formulation, focusing on ammonium perchlorate (AP), ammonium nitrate (AN), HTPB binders, and metallic fuels.
  • Expertise in propellant mixing, casting, curing, and associated chemical reactions.
  • Strong understanding of oxidizer-binder-fuel interactions and their effects on combustion characteristics and mechanical properties.
  • In-depth knowledge of rheology and processability of composite propellants, including viscosity control and filler dispersion.
  • Proficiency in characterizing burn rates, pressure indices, and specific impulse performance.
  • Knowledge of curing kinetics, crosslinking reactions in HTPB systems, and plasticizer-binder compatibility.
  • Development of high-energy composite propellant formulations with reduced signature and enhanced safety.
  • Expertise in integrating burn rate modifiers, stabilizers, and additives to optimize performance parameters.
  • Innovation in nano-energetic materials and advanced fillers for higher energy density and stability.
  • Ability to conduct fundamental research into reaction mechanisms and thermal decomposition of composite propellants.
  • Experience in scaling up composite propellant formulations from laboratory prototypes to small-batch production.
  • Understanding of propellant processing techniques, including proper sequencing for mixing, casting, and curing operations.
  • Knowledge of equipment operation and maintenance, particularly for small-batch mixers, vacuum casting setups, and curing chambers.
  • Expertise in conducting mechanical property tests for cured propellant.
  • Proficiency in thermal analysis techniques, such as TGA, DSC, DMA, and thermal conductivity measurements.
  • Capability to perform burn rate testing, strand burning, and ballistic evaluation of composite propellants.
  • Experience with non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, such as X-ray and ultrasonic techniques, to identify defects in propellant grains.
  • Expertise in hazard analysis for handling and processing oxidizers, fuels, and additives.
Qualification / Experience
  • Minimum 15 years in Propellant Research and Development and 10 years in a Senior role for a large corporate
  • Bachelor's in Chemistry or other related fields,
  • MSc in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or a specialized area related to Propellant development.
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science , or a specialized area related to Propellant development.

EDGE Group