Research Associate in Chemical Engineering
About The Position
Two postdoctoral positions in heterogeneous catalysis are available in the Department of Chemical Engineering under the direction of Professors Ayman Karim and Bill Epling. The appointments may start as early as January 2, 2027. Candidates will work on one of two projects: selective bond activation on supported metal single atoms and subnanometer clusters, or improving product yields through dynamic reactor operation. The first project develops structure–activity relationships through controlled catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements, and in-situ characterization, including calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAFS). The second investigates how changing plug-flow reactor inlet conditions—including pressure, temperature, and feed composition—can tune catalyst surfaces to improve reaction rates, selectivity, and longevity. It involves reactor design, kinetic measurements, and catalyst characterization to determine the mechanisms underlying observed changes in catalytic behavior. Alongside independent experimental research, the selected candidates may train and mentor graduate students in the Karim and Epling groups. This is a one-year appointment that may be renewed for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent on available funding and satisfactory performance. Application review begins October 1, 2026, and continues until the position is filled. The University will conduct background checks on new hires before employment.
Requirements
- A PhD in chemistry, physical chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field is required by the start date.
- Extensive experience in heterogeneous catalysis, including catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements, and catalyst characterization using infrared spectroscopy and conventional techniques such as XRD, BET measurements, gas chemisorption, and temperature-programmed reduction and oxidation.
- Strong track record of scientific productivity and publications.
- Experience managing more than one project simultaneously.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with a glovebox.
- Experience working with lab-scale reactors at elevated temperatures and pressures.
- Experience with calorimetry and Raman spectroscopy.
- Experience with XAFS measurements and data analysis.
- Experience with mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy for gas-phase concentration measurements.
Responsibilities
- Develop catalyst synthesis methods.
- Use plug-flow reactors for steady-state and dynamic operation.
- Characterize catalysts using conventional and spectroscopic techniques.
- Conduct detailed kinetic measurements.
- Develop experimental protocols for calorimetry measurements of catalysts.
- Maintain laboratory reactors and characterization instrumentation.
- Prepare manuscripts to disseminate research findings.
- Attend, contribute to, and present at national and international meetings.
- Provide guidance to students in the research group.
- Assist in developing new research directions and writing proposals.
- Conduct independent experimental studies and train and mentor graduate students.
Benefits
- Information about benefits for postdoctoral associates is available at postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits; specific benefits are not listed in the posting.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
