Heterogeneous Catalysis Research Postdoc

Los Alamos National Laboratory • Los Alamos, NM

391d • $94,500 - $94,500

About The Position

The Heterogeneous Catalysis Research Postdoc position at Los Alamos National Laboratory involves conducting research in biomass catalytic conversion and bio-derived chemicals production. The role focuses on developing new catalytic materials and strategies for high-value chemical production, engaging in experimental work, and performing techno-economic and life cycle analyses.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in chemical engineering, chemistry, or a related field within the last five years or completion of all Ph.D. requirements by the start of the appointment.
• Strong background and extensive hands-on experience in catalytic conversions and organic chemical reactions in bench-scale high-pressure Parr reactors.
• Extensive hands-on experience in catalyst synthesis, characterization, and quantified products analysis.
• Experience in techno-economic analysis and life cycle analysis for biomass conversions.
• Proven ability to work creatively and independently with a comprehensive understanding of chemical engineering fundamentals.
• Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication skills with a strong publication and presentation record.

Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel catalytic materials, particularly heterogeneous catalytic materials.
• Develop biomass conversion strategies for the production of high-value-added fuels and chemicals.
• Run batch and continuous flow packed bed reactors with synthesized catalysts for reaction mechanism and kinetic studies.
• Characterize catalytic materials using analytical instruments such as Chemisorption, BET, TGA, SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, ICP-MS, and identify conversion products using GC-TCD, micro-GC, HPLC, GC-MS, NMR.
• Model techno-economic analysis and life cycle analysis for designed reaction processes and identify sensitivity steps to optimize simulations.

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a large nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• 401(k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annually.
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50-mile radius).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree