Catalyst Research Scientist

Role overview

Catalyst Research Scientist at Manastu Space

Solving them demands a rigorous understanding of structure–activity relationships, combined with disciplined process control and scale-up. ‍ You will work at the intersection of materials chemistry, heterogeneous catalysis, and propulsion hardware, contributing to the development of stable, reliable, and flight-ready catalyst beds for green propulsion systems.

Role Objective Lead the scientific research and experimental development of high-temperature-stable catalysts that initiate decomposition and sustain combustion of our hydrogen peroxide–based green monopropellant inside the thrusters — reliably, through repeated starts and long cumulative firing, for the full life of the mission. ‍ The role owns catalyst science end to end: elucidating the catalyst degradation mechanisms at work in the high-temperature, oxidising environment of the thruster, designing catalyst formulations that withstand it, and maturing the laboratory-scale preparation into a standardized, quality-controlled process supported by a qualification data pack accepted by customers and space agencies. ‍

We are seeking an experienced Catalyst Research Scientist to join our growing aerospace facility in Navi Mumbai, with strong expertise in heterogeneous catalysis — rational catalyst design, preparation, and characterization. ‍ The role addresses two central technical challenges: catalyst deactivation under the thermal and oxidizing conditions of thruster operation, and batch-to-batch variation in catalyst properties between preparations of identical chemical composition.

Key Responsibilities 1.

Design, synthesize, and shape high-temperature-stable catalysts for the decomposition and combustion of our hydrogen peroxide–based green monopropellant inside the thrusters. ‍ 2.

Lead the investigation of catalyst degradation mechanisms and catalyst bed failures — chemical, thermal, and mechanical — establishing each mechanism with characterization evidence and driving it to root cause and verified resolution. ‍ 3.

Plan and execute structured catalyst screening campaigns — supported by lab-scale tests, to predict catalyst functionality inside the thruster — and down-select candidate materials on measured evidence. ‍ 4.

Establish structure–activity correlations, identifying the intrinsic catalyst properties that govern activity and operational life, and develop validated models to predict catalyst bed performance. ‍ 5.

Perform and interpret catalyst characterization using techniques such as XRD, XPS, BET, SEM/TEM, ICP, TGA, chemisorption, and mechanical testing. ‍ 6.

Standardize the catalyst preparation process into SOPs with QA/QC acceptance limits, and scale it up to the batch sizes required for qualification. ‍ 7.

Compile the qualification data pack — catalyst specifications, quality standards and traceability from raw material to fired bed — required for certification by customers and space agencies. ‍ 8.

Publish technical findings internally and externally, mentor team members, and build laboratory capability, with safety integrated into every experimental plan from the outset.

Experience & Background 1.

PhD in Catalysis, or a related field, with a minimum of 5 years of post-PhD industry or equivalent experience in heterogeneous catalyst development — ideally for high-temperature, oxidizing, or similarly demanding environments. ‍ 2.

Hands-on experience in catalyst synthesis (impregnation, hydrothermal, co-precipitation, or similar routes) and shaping (granulation, pelletizing, or extrusion), with a sound understanding of how preparation variables govern catalyst properties. ‍ 3.

Strong grounding in catalyst deactivation mechanisms and failure analysis, supported by hands-on command of characterization techniques such as XRD, XPS, BET, SEM/TEM, ICP, TGA, chemisorption, and mechanical testing. ‍ 4.

Experience in process standardization and scale-up — SOPs, QA/QC acceptance limits, and quality control across repeated batches. ‍ 5.

A strong publication record (patents, research papers, and conferences), ideally with a catalyst taken from the laboratory to a released product or specification. ‍ 6.

Ability to work in a timeline-driven, result-oriented, and fast-paced environment with a safety-first approach.

Ideal Candidate Profile

A hands-on catalyst scientist experienced in synthesis, shaping, characterized, and scaled catalysts — and supports every claim with measured data. ‍

Combines a scientist’s understanding of mechanisms and structure–activity relationships with an engineer’s discipline in process control — having taken at least one material from concept to reliable, repeatable batches. ‍

Works independently, communicates effectively across engineering teams and leadership, and treats safety as an integral part of the science.

What we offer - Competitive compensation - Comprehensive health insurance - High ownership and visibility, with direct access to leadership - Support for learning, conferences and research exposure - Subsidized lunch plan ‍ If you are motivated by solving complex challenges at scale, we would like to hear from you (careers@manastuspace.com). ‍ Manastu Space is a pioneering space technology company developing green propulsion systems, redefining space safety.

We specialize in full-stack maneuverability solutions for satellites and upper stages of launch vehicles.

As the number of satellites in orbit continues to grow, ensuring safe and reliable maneuverability has become critical for mission-success and long-term orbital sustainability. ‍ Our propulsion systems offer an agile and enhanced maneuvering, with its proprietary hydrogen peroxide-alcohol based novel green propellant; MS-289.

This performance-enhancing and high reliability fuel replaces toxic propellants such as hydrazine, making it the future-ready choice for sustainable satellite propulsion.

Designed for safety, rapid integration and operational efficiency, our systems provide the precision required for orbit-raising, station-keeping, collision avoidance and end-of-life deorbiting, helping operators safeguard assets while reducing the growing threat of space debris. ‍ Website: https://www.manastuspace.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/manastu-space/ Email: careers@manastuspace.com

Employment details

• Location: Navi Mumbai [Maharashtra] [India]