Postdoctoral Research Associate - Sustainable & Circular Polymer Materials

Washington State University • Pullman, WA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Composite Materials & Engineering Center (CMEC) at Washington State University seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct research in sustainable and circular polymer materials. The position supports CMEC’s interdisciplinary mission to advance renewable materials, polymer innovation, and circular economy solutions for industry and society. The researcher will work on synthesis, characterization, and application development of next-generation biobased and recycled polymer systems. The role includes hands-on laboratory research, collaboration with CMEC faculty and industry partners, and contributions to student mentoring and proposal development.

The research portfolio centers on synthesis and application development of biobased polymer materials derived from vegetable oils, renewable chemicals, soy protein, lignin, and other bio-based feedstocks; chemical recycling and upcycling of plastic and composite waste, especially polyesters and thermoset polymer composites; and the design, fabrication, and characterization of sustainable polymer materials for structural and non-structural applications.

This is a full-time, temporary, 12-month appointment expected to begin January 1, 2027 and end December 31, 2027. Renewal depends on extension needs and/or additional funding. The position is overtime eligible and may be eligible for work visa sponsorship. The annual salary is $62,232, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The position is located in Pullman, Washington, and is represented by Postdocs United/UAW under a collective bargaining agreement.

Requirements

• Doctoral degree in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, polymer science, materials science and engineering, or a closely related science or engineering discipline.
• Research experience in organic synthesis, polymer synthesis, or related chemical/materials synthesis.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate research findings effectively through scientific writing and oral presentations.

Nice To Haves

• Organic synthesis and polymerization skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on sustainable and circular polymer materials.
• Synthesize, characterize, and develop applications for next-generation biobased and recycled polymer systems.
• Develop biobased polymer materials using feedstocks such as vegetable oils, renewable chemicals, soy protein, and lignin.
• Conduct chemical recycling and upcycling of plastic and composite waste, particularly polyesters and thermoset polymer composites.
• Design, fabricate, and characterize sustainable polymer materials for structural and non-structural applications.
• Collaborate with CMEC faculty and industry partners.
• Contribute to student mentoring and proposal development.
• Communicate research findings through scientific writing and oral presentations.

Benefits

• Paid sick and vacation leave
• Paid holidays
• Medical insurance for employees and dependents
• Dental insurance for employees and dependents
• Life insurance for employees and dependents
• Disability insurance for employees and dependents
• Retirement benefits
• Deferred compensation
• Optional supplemental retirement accounts

What This Job Offers

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