Senior Research Scientist – Battery and Data Center Safety

Established nearly two centuries ago, FM is a leading mutual insurance company whose capital, scientific research capability and engineering expertise are solely dedicated to property risk management and the resilience of its policyholder-owners. These owners, who share the belief that the majority of property loss is preventable, represent many of the world’s largest organizations, including one of every four Fortune 500 companies. They work with FM to better understand the hazards that can impact their business continuity to make cost-effective risk management decisions, combining property loss prevention with insurance protection.

Schedule & Location

Employment type: Full-time, exempt salaried position based in office at FM’s Science and Technology Office in Norwood, MA.

Relocation: Domestic Relocation assistance within the US is available for this position.

Assessments

Candidates will be expected to deliver an in‑person presentation as part of the interview process.

Position Summary

FM is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to advance scientific understanding, develop testing methodologies and standards, and create engineering solutions in the field of battery safety. The ultimate goal is to support industrial property loss prevention by conducting high‑quality research focused on thermal and fire hazards associated with batteries, with a near‑term emphasis on lithium-ion systems used in data center and renewable energy applications.

Responsibilities

Develop and perform thermal and fire safety experiments at multiple battery scales – cell, module, unit, and high‑voltage-system levels.

Advance existing experimental capabilities and methods to support the development of standardized testing for hazard evaluation and protection of battery systems.

Analyze experimental data and prepare high-quality documentation.

Communicate test methods, results, and engineering recommendations to internal and external stakeholders, including collaborators, clients, and industry partners.

Manage all aspects of project management, including proposals, planning, execution, reporting, and engineering application.

Qualifications

A Master's degree with a minimum of 5 years of experience, or a PhD degree in Mechanical, Chemical Engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, or a closely related field.

Desired Experience

Strong understanding of existing and emerging battery technologies, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and combustion.

Hands-on experience with battery fire testing and associated experimental approaches in fire science.

Experience with high-voltage battery system testing, such as BESS or UPS systems, is highly desirable.

Strong written and verbal communication skills and a demonstrated ability to develop effective solutions to complex technical challenges.

Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to productively collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment.

The hiring range for this position is $121,000 - $173,000 a year. The final salary offer will vary based on geographic location, individual education, skills, and experience. The position is eligible to participate in FM’s comprehensive Total Rewards program that includes an incentive plan, medical, dental and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, well-being programs, a 401(k) and pension plan, career development opportunities, tuition reimbursement, flexible work, and time off, including vacation and sick time.

FM is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse workforce.