Post-Doctoral Research Associate, Chemistry

University of Montana • Missoula, MT

1d

About The Position

The University of Montana invites applications for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate for the Atmospheric Chemistry Group in Chemistry. The ideal start date is between July 1, 2026, and January 2, 2027. This position will lead studies of the chemistry and emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), aerosols, and oxidants in biomass-burning-impacted environments and in the urban atmosphere. This position is expected to support 1) the development of new observational constraints on VOC emissions via aircraft and mobile measurements, 2) characterization of proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) measurements for emerging air pollutants, 3) data analysis of smoke and urban observations from previous field campaigns, and/or 4) box and 3D atmospheric modeling of the chemical impacts of urban/fire-related VOCs. The position will also provide opportunities to play a leadership role in planning, overseeing, and implementing ongoing and future field campaigns.

Requirements

• PhD in atmospheric chemistry or a relevant field
• Demonstrated experience of excellent research capabilities required to carry out innovative and insightful research
• Ability to identify, analyze and summarize relevant literature
• Ability to devise and articulate a research plan with defined goals, and design sound experimental strategies with appropriate controls
• Proven record and ability to produce research to a high publication standard
• Ability to learn and apply new skills appropriate to conduct necessary research
• Knowledge and experience in laboratory environments
• Proven ability to communicate complex ideas and concepts (both orally and in writing) to scientific and non-scientific audiences
• Ability and willingness to undertake collaborative research
• Ability to supervise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students
• Ability to maintain a safe working and learning environment
• Ability to achieve project goals within time and budget
• Strong theoretical and empirical background

Nice To Haves

• Strong publication records in a relevant field
• Substantial experience in advanced data analysis using statistical programming (e.g., R, MATLAB, IDL, or Python)
• Expertise in advanced mass spectrometry, such as PTR-ToF-MS, experience in FTIR, NOx, O3, and PAX (aerosol optics), or in atmospheric modeling research

Responsibilities

• See intellectually and technically complex projects through to their conclusion, which will involve developing methodological approaches and reviewing, analyzing, and interpreting scientific data and results from the project
• Exhibit independent decision making in designing and implementing strategies for achieving shared research goals
• Write papers for publication based on research, compose projects reports and contribute to grant applications; present at seminars and national meetings; and participate in research group meetings that may include oral and/or written brief reports
• May supervise research personnel including undergraduate and/or graduate students, providing training and guidance with regard to specific techniques
• May assist students in their research efforts, acting as a resource and a mentor

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree