Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Synthetic Chemistry

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, BC

4d • CA$55,000 - CA$62,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The University of British Columbia is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Gates Group in the Department of Chemistry. This position is part of a joint project with industry, supported by an approved MITACS Accelerate internship. The successful applicant will conduct research in synthetic chemistry, focusing on the synthesis, purification, and analysis of small molecules, monomers, and polymers, with potential applications in mineral extraction. The role involves collaboration with industry partners, reporting on progress, and potentially overseeing other research personnel. The position is based at the UBC Vancouver Campus.

Requirements

• PhD degree in Synthetic Chemistry
• Technical Experience with the synthesis and purification of inorganic and/or organic small molecules and/or polymers, including air-sensitive methods.
• Expertise in the analytical methods employed for the characterization of molecules and polymers is essential.
• Research experience, excellent communication skills, judgment, and discretion in working with various senior professionals and collaborating with internal and external agencies.
• Meet the eligibility requirements to be a MITACS Accelerate Intern at the PDF level.

Nice To Haves

• Expertise in hydrometallurgical processes for efficient mineral extraction will be an asset but is not required.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize or commercially source relevant functional small molecules, monomers, and polymers.
• Perform and optimize mineral extractions from ores provided by industrial partner.
• Purify materials employing ion-exchange resins or similar separation protocols.
• Analyze molecules/polymers using standard characterization tools (e.g. NMR, IR, MS, etc.).
• Analyze complex mixtures to identify and determine concentration of dissolved metal ions, molecular compounds and polymers.
• Employ analytical methods such as LC-MS, ESI-MS, MALDI-MS, TOC analysis, ICP-OES, and DLS.
• Optimize techniques described above.
• Develop new synthetic and analytical methods to solve problems of relevance to our industrial partner.
• Serve as the point of contact for external (industry) and internal (PIs and HQP) stakeholders on scientific and technical matters.
• Provide reports (written and oral) to our industry partner on a monthly basis.
• May oversee other research personnel.
• May provide orientation and training on laboratory techniques and instruments as required.
• Maintain safe and clean lab space used.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• The expected pay range for this position is $55,000 - $62,000/annually.

What This Job Offers

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