Scientific Lead

Scientific Lead & Project Manager - OxyleafTM ProjectPart-time, unpaid during the early phase Hybrid work model (remote and/or on-site in Milan, Rome, or Boston)Travel and meeting expenses will be reimbursed upon approvalAn NDA must be signedThis position may evolve into a full-time Director of Environmental Technologies or Chief Science Officer (CSO) role based on performance and project growth.About Institute Itech:Institute Itech is an early-stage multinational company committed to building a new model of society grounded in education, advanced technology, and social development.We are launching a portfolio of innovation projects designed to integrate sustainability, advanced engineering, and social impact.One of our flagship environmental technology initiatives is:OxyleafTM – Synthetic plant systems for urban air purification, renewable energy generation (OPV & thermoelectric), and environmental data collection.The company is legally incorporated (USA, Italy) and is now building its founding leadership team to bring these projects from concept to large-scale deployment.About the Role:We are seeking a Scientific Lead & Head of OxyleafTM to guide the research, development, and scientific validation of the project. This role combines scientific leadership, applied R&D, and strategic management, ensuring OxyleafTM achieves excellence in environmental performance, renewable energy efficiency, and real-world deployment.The selected candidate will lead interdisciplinary work involving physics, renewable energy systems, and environmental biology.Responsibilities:Oversee scientific research, prototyping, and validation of OxyleafTM technologiesLead R&D on photovoltaic (OPV), thermoelectric, and energy storage systemsCoordinate environmental impact studies on air purification, heat reduction, and CO2/O2 balanceCollaborate with engineers, material scientists, and IoT specialists for sensor integrationGuide the selection and testing of bio-inspired design elements and synthetic materialsEnsure compliance with environmental regulations and urban infrastructure standardsRepresent the project in scientific, institutional, and investor presentationsDevelop relationships with universities, research centers, and industrial partnersRequirements:Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in Physics, Renewable Energy, Environmental Science, or BiologyMinimum 5+ years of experience in applied research or renewable energy developmentSolid understanding of energy harvesting technologies, climate science, and biological systemsExperience managing interdisciplinary research teams and technology pilotsStrong scientific writing and public presentation skillsFluent in English (Italian is a strong plus)Preferred Qualifications:Previous involvement in urban sustainability or climate adaptation projectsKnowledge of materials science, catalytic filtration, or bio-mimetic engineeringExperience in grant writing, EU Horizon projects, or public-private research fundingNetwork within academic, governmental, or green-tech investment sectorsBenefits Provided:Reimbursement of travel and mobility expensesAccess to advanced R&D tools, cloud resources, and collaboration platformsFull scientific leadership of OxyleafTM from development to deploymentStrategic decision-making role in environmental technology innovationPotential evolution into a C-level scientific position within Institute ItechHow to Apply:Please send:Your CVA short letter (max 1 page), in English or Italian, describing:Why you are interested in leading the OxyleafTM projectWhat expertise and vision you bring in physics, renewable energy, and biologyHow you would drive the scientific success and scalability of the systemSend E-mail and contact:E-mail: in.oiap2025@institute.iite.euSubject: WE2025 Job - [Job Name] LinkedIn Application - [Name Surname]Time Commitment:This is a non-paid position during the startup phase, with a minimum commitment of 4–6 hours per week.We are looking for a scientific leader with vision, technical authority, and a commitment to environmental innovation.