Battelle Hires Paige Jacob as PFAS Chemistry Program Manager to Drive Semiconductor Industry Solutions

COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Battelle announced today that Paige Jacob, a leading expert in per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and emerging contaminants, has joined the organization as PFAS Chemistry Program Manager. In this role, Jacob will provide client-facing leadership for research execution and consultation services, advancing Battelle’s mission to deliver innovative solutions for PFAS challenges across critical industries.

Battelle has made significant investments in PFAS technology development, and Jacob’s appointment strengthens its ability to address sector-specific needs—particularly in the semiconductor industry. She brings a combination of technical expertise, strategic insight, and industry relationships that will help clients understand PFAS sources, interpret complex analytical data, and implement economically viable treatment solutions.

While earning her Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Cornell University, Jacob conducted groundbreaking research funded by the Semiconductor Research Corporation and the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program. Her seminal work quantified PFAS in semiconductor fabrication wastewater for the first time and developed advanced analytical methods for ultrashort-chain PFAS.

She later served as Wastewater Technologist at Intel Corporation, creating PFAS monitoring roadmaps and analytical methods, and as Technical Program Manager for the PFAS Reduction and Innovation in Semiconductor Manufacturing (PRISM) program at Natcast, where she managed $35 million in R&D funding and led technical working groups to address PFAS in fab air and wastewater emissions.

At Battelle, Jacob will lead method development, internal R&D, and commercialization of analytical and treatment offerings tailored to industry needs. She also will drive collaboration with external entities, support emerging contaminant initiatives, and guide clients toward sustainable water practices and innovative treatment options beyond PFAS.

“Battelle’s mission of using science for societal benefits aligns perfectly with my personal values,” Jacob said. “I’m excited to work with Battelle’s talented experts and partner with the semiconductor industry to develop solutions that address PFAS challenges and advance water circularity.”

“Paige brings unmatched expertise and deep industry connections that will accelerate our ability to deliver practical, science-based solutions for PFAS challenges,” said Shalene Thomas, Battelle’s Senior Emerging Contaminants Program Manager. “Her leadership will be instrumental in helping our clients navigate complex regulatory and technical landscapes while advancing sustainability.”

About Battelle

Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical consulting and analytical laboratory services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.