Researcher Scientist III, Chemistry & Biochemistry

The University of Arizona•Tucson, AZ

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Arizona’s Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry seeks a Research Scientist III to independently conduct and contribute to advanced research in heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and energy conversion technologies. The role applies specialized expertise in catalyst synthesis, materials characterization, and catalytic performance evaluation to study relationships between material structure, surface composition, chemical properties, and functional performance. The researcher designs and executes experiments, applies advanced analytical techniques—including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS)—and characterizes catalysts and functional materials under conventional, operando, and in-situ conditions. The role involves independently analyzing and interpreting results, identifying research challenges, developing and refining methods, maintaining laboratory instrumentation and records, and contributing to research objectives through collaboration, technical reporting, and dissemination of findings. The position also provides technical guidance to students and research collaborators as appropriate.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science and engineering, or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional-level experience.
At least 5 years of relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
Knowledge of heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and energy conversion technologies.
Knowledge of advanced materials characterization techniques, including XPS, TEM, XAS, and EXAFS.
Ability to synthesize and prepare catalysts.
Ability to perform advanced characterization using XPS, TEM, XAS, and EXAFS.
Ability to design, execute, and optimize independent scientific research experiments.
Ability to analyze, interpret, and validate complex experimental data.
Ability to troubleshoot technical challenges and develop research solutions.
Ability to operate and maintain specialized laboratory instrumentation and analytical equipment.
Ability to prepare scientific publications, technical reports, and research presentations.
Ability to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary research teams and external partners.

Nice To Haves

PhD in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science and engineering.

Responsibilities

Design, conduct, and optimize characterization experiments to investigate structural, chemical, electronic, and surface properties of catalysts and energy-related materials.
Use XPS, XAS, and EXAFS to characterize material composition, oxidation states, local atomic structure, and surface properties; conduct operando and in-situ characterization under relevant reaction conditions.
Analyze complex experimental data and determine relationships between material properties, catalytic mechanisms, and functional performance.
Develop and refine characterization methods to address research questions and project objectives.
Design and conduct experiments evaluating catalytic activity, selectivity, stability, and durability in heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and energy conversion applications.
Develop and implement methods to investigate reaction mechanisms and performance under varying operating conditions.
Evaluate electrochemical properties, including battery charge-discharge cycling and related energy-storage processes, as applicable to research objectives.
Correlate catalytic and electrochemical results with material composition and structural characteristics; troubleshoot limitations and recommend improvements to methods, reproducibility, and data quality.
Synthesize, prepare, and optimize heterogeneous catalysts, electrocatalysts, and functional materials, including metal nanoparticles, single-atom catalysts, and metal oxides.
Evaluate synthesis parameters and preparation methods to control material composition, morphology, surface properties, and structure; assess material quality and reproducibility and adjust procedures as needed.
Plan and execute research projects in alignment with scientific objectives, timelines, and priorities; identify research questions and independently address technical and methodological challenges.
Analyze, interpret, and validate research data; evaluate outcomes and recommend further investigations or changes to experimental designs and methods.
Maintain accurate research records and prepare technical reports, presentations, and supporting documentation.
Maintain, operate, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and research equipment; follow laboratory safety, chemical handling, equipment, and university research standards.
Collaborate with faculty, students, research personnel, and external partners to coordinate experiments and support research objectives.
Contribute to scientific publications, presentations, conference materials, and technical reports; provide technical guidance and share research methods with students and collaborators as appropriate.

Benefits

Health insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Disability programs
Paid vacation
Paid sick leave
Paid holidays
Tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members at the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Northern Arizona University
Retirement plans
Access to University of Arizona recreation and cultural activities
Work-life programs