Postdoctoral Research Scholar 0-5 yrs Experience

San Diego State University Research Foundation • San Diego, CA

17h • $5,859 • Onsite

About The Position

The salary for this position is $5858.67 per month depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable.
The primary function of the unit is to (1) design and synthesize advanced semiconductor nanomaterials, particularly perovskite nanocrystals, (2) investigate their photophysical and charge-transfer properties, and (3) apply these materials to enable novel and efficient photocatalytic transformations, with particular research directions include asymmetric photocatalysis using chiral perovskite systems, dual catalytic strategies combining photoredox and transition metal catalysis, and mechanistic studies to understand catalyst–substrate interactions at the nanoscale.
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
The Postdoctoral Research Scholar is expected to be highly collaborative and goal oriented. The individual will conduct experimental research under the guidance of Dr. Yan, and will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data for dissemination in reports and peer-reviewed publications

Requirements

• Doctoral degree or equivalent in an appropriate field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of photoredox organic reactions, including reaction design and optimization under visible-light conditions.
• Expertise in photocatalyst design and development, particularly semiconductor-based systems (e.g., perovskite nanocrystals).
• Strong understanding of organic reaction mechanisms, with the ability to analyze and interpret catalytic pathways and reaction outcomes.
• Research experience in photocatalytic organic synthesis.
• Knowledge of best practices in laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in scientific data documentation, record keeping, and reporting.
• Asymmetric reaction preferred
• Experience with standard statistical analysis of scientific data.
• Demonstrated ability in scientific data documentation and reporting.

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D in chemistry with a focus on photocatalytic reaction development or related areas.
• Proficiency in analytical and purification techniques, including NMR spectroscopy, HPLC, chiral HPLC and column chromatography.
• Experience in photocatalyst design and development, particularly for photoredox applications.
• Knowledge of asymmetric organic reaction mechanisms.
• Demonstrated track record of scientific writing and publication in peer-reviewed chemistry journals.

Responsibilities

• Design and Execute Research ProjectsPlan and carry out experimental studies in photocatalytic organic synthesis, including reaction development, optimization, and substrate scope exploration.
• Catalyst Development and CharacterizationSynthesize and modify photocatalysts (e.g., perovskite nanocrystals), and perform structural, photophysical, and chemical characterization using appropriate techniques.
• Data Analysis and Mechanistic InvestigationAnalyze experimental data, interpret reaction outcomes, and conduct mechanistic studies to understand catalytic pathways and improve reaction performance.
• Scholarly Communication and PublicationPrepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, present research findings at conferences, and contribute to reports and grant-related documentation.
• Mentorship and Laboratory CollaborationMentor undergraduate students, maintain a collaborative research environment, and contribute to overall lab organization and safety compliance.
• Plan and schedule the necessary lab experiments, including ordering needed supplies.
• Interact with members of the research team in a professional and collaborative manner.
• Participate actively in lab meetings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees