Just wrapped a 6-month pilot on alkali-activated binders and 3D-printed formwork, and I’m trying to figure out which firms hire architectural researchers to push materials from TRL 4–7 into specs. If you’re at a GC, design-build group, or manufacturer with in-house R&D, are roles like “materials innovation lead” real, and do you value hands-on data (ASTM C39/C191, EPD/LCA via One Click) alongside detailing and mockups? I’m in Chicago and open to contract-to-hire; happy to share our 2024 field mockup notes.