University of Virginia
4 days ago
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Heterogeneous Catalysis and Chemical Engineering University of Virginia in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
One-year postdoctoral appointment that may be renewed for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
Deadline
Oct 1, 2026
Country
United States
University
University of Virginia
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About this position
University of Virginia is advertising two postdoctoral positions in heterogeneous catalysis within the Department of Chemical Engineering, under the direction of Professors Ayman Karim and Bill Epling.
The research includes two related project areas: (1) selective bond activation on supported metal single atoms and subnanometer clusters, with emphasis on catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements, and characterization using in-situ techniques such as calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAFS); and (2) improved product yields via dynamic reactor operation, focusing on how plug-flow reactor inlet conditions (pressure, temperature, feed composition) affect catalyst performance, selectivity, and longevity.
Successful candidates will develop catalyst synthesis methods, run steady-state and dynamic plug-flow reactors, perform detailed kinetic measurements, carry out calorimetry protocols, maintain reactors and instrumentation, write manuscripts, present at national and international meetings, mentor graduate students, and help develop new research directions and proposals.
Eligibility highlights: PhD in chemistry, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field by the start date; extensive heterogeneous catalysis experience; strong publication record; ability to manage multiple projects; excellent communication skills; and demonstrated independence and teamwork. Preferred experience includes glovebox work, elevated-temperature/pressure reactors, calorimetry, Raman spectroscopy, XAFS, and mass spectrometry/infrared spectroscopy for gas-phase measurements.
Funding and duration: one-year appointment, renewable for up to two additional one-year terms depending on funding and performance.
Application: apply via the UVA Careers portal using requisition R0086627. Submit a cover letter, CV, and three references. Review begins 2026-10-01 and continues until filled.
Funding details
One-year postdoctoral appointment that may be renewed for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.
What's required
PhD in chemistry, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field is required by the start date. Applicants should have extensive experience in heterogeneous catalysis, including catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements, and catalyst characterization using infrared spectroscopy and other conventional techniques such as XRD, BET measurements, gas chemisorption, and temperature-programmed reduction/oxidation. A strong publication record, experience managing more than one project simultaneously, excellent oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively are required. Desired experience includes glovebox work, lab-scale reactors at elevated temperatures and pressures, calorimetry, Raman spectroscopy, XAFS, and mass spectrometry/infrared spectroscopy for gas-phase concentration measurements.
How to apply
Apply through the University of Virginia jobs portal and search for requisition R0086627. Upload a cover letter describing research interests, a detailed CV, and contact information for three references. Multiple documents can be uploaded in the CV box, and all documents must be uploaded to complete the application.
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