Director, Materials AISF Program Lead

About the role

You will govern the Materials AISF program, converting strategic vision into concrete charters, budgets, and timelines while coordinating seamless execution between science and AI teams. Your primary mission is to expand the experimental capabilities that enable AI systems to learn fundamental materials science principles at scale. You will act as the central architect for the program's roadmap, aligning technical possibilities with business and scientific priorities. Success in this position requires a rare blend of deep domain knowledge, strategic foresight, and the ability to drive complex initiatives forward within a matrixed environment.

Key facts

What you'll do

You will define and own the end-to-end strategy for the Materials AISF program, ensuring alignment with Lila's broader scientific and product objectives. A core responsibility involves translating high-level priorities into detailed program charters, budgets, and execution timelines with clear success metrics. You will design and manage the roadmap for expanding experimental capabilities, with a specific focus on advanced synthesis techniques such as vacuum processes, material characterization, and electrochemistry. A significant portion of your effort will center on evaluating outcomes from early-stage scientific investigations and defining pathways to integrate successful discoveries into scalable platforms. You will form, align, and guide cross-functional project teams, ensuring coordinated effort across diverse disciplines. also, you will represent the Materials Science AISF program in discussions with technical leadership, providing clear communication on progress, challenges, and strategic choices. Prioritization of resources and proactive management of execution risks will be essential to maintaining momentum and achieving program goals. You will continuously assess findings from Scientific Programs to refine experimental approaches and enhance the efficiency of AI-driven materials discovery.

What you'll need to succeed

To excel in this role, you must possess a doctoral-level qualification or equivalent advanced experience in a relevant scientific discipline, coupled with a strong background in industrial research. A proven ability to lead large-scale, complex experimental initiatives involving multiple disciplines is essential. You should have a deep understanding of the core domains within Materials Science AISF, including vacuum-based synthesis methods, advanced characterization tools, electrochemistry, and nanoporous materials systems. Experience in developing and managing technical roadmaps under strict constraints related to resources, budgets, and timelines is required. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are non-negotiable, as you will need to distill complex scientific concepts into compelling strategic narratives for diverse audiences. Demonstrated success in leading initiatives across matrixed, cross-functional teams, influencing without direct authority, will be a key determinant of your effectiveness.

Bonus Points For

Experience with automated or high-throughput experimental platforms, including robotics and lab automation systems, is highly valued. Familiarity with AI and machine learning approaches to experimental design, such as Bayesian optimization, and closed-loop discovery frameworks provides a distinct advantage. Exposure to atomistic simulation techniques and their practical integration with experimental workflows will deepen your impact. A background in fast-paced, dynamic research settings, such as national laboratories, venture-backed startups, or deep-tech companies, is beneficial. Experience managing and coordinating programs that share resources and run concurrently will help you navigate the complexities of this role.

Skills & tools

Collaboration with Product, AISF Engineering, Materials Experiment, and Scientific Programs teams.

Practical notes

Please confirm all details regarding compensation, equity, and benefits on the official application page. This information is intended to provide a clear overview and does not supersede official offer documentation. Ensure all application materials are complete and accurately reflect your experience and qualifications.

Requirements

• Meet the bar