Postdoctoral Researcher

24379BR

Chemical & Petroleum Engr

Position Overview

This Postdoctoral Researcher will prepare nanoparticles using charged polymers and investigate their interaction with critical minerals. The position will also characterize water samples with focus on measurement of critical minerals in the presence of charged polymers. The purpose of this characterization is to improve separation of such elements from produced and wastewater. Understanding of polymer and water chemistry, as well as analytical methods of measuring various chemicals in water, is a necessary part of their day-to-day activity.
The ideal candidate for this position will have:

• A strong understanding of polymer and water chemistry
• A strong understanding of various analytical methods including but not limited to ICP-OES, ICP-MS, UV-vis, FTIR, and Particle Sizer.
• Familiarity with water treatment processes
• Being able to communicate the outcomes effectively in writing and presentation format.

Initial appointment for one year with possible renewal up to 18 months.

Job Description

70% Research - Design and execution of experiments

• Carry out original research relative to the laboratory measurements listed under the position overview.
• Perform experiments, process the data, analyze the data, and put it in perspective to compare the findings from different parts of the project.

15% Laboratory protocol - Routine lab management

• Ensure systems are in place for efficient planning of lab supplies, records and document management, as well as experimental protocols and data, and coordination of good lab practices and lab safety.

10% Reporting – Prepare reports, presentations, and papers

• Write technical reports and scientific papers for peer-reviewed journals.
• Prepare project update reports and presentations for the clients.
• Assist in the preparation of grants/contracts and proposals for federal, state, and charitable organizations and industrial clients.

5% Collaboration - Assist other laboratory members with experiments

• Assist the principal investigator to provide experimental and technical supervision of one or more technicians, graduate students and/or undergraduate researchers, and/or fellows.
• Collaborate with researchers from different disciplines, both internally and externally and at different levels with the purpose of achieving the goals of this project.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Geology or related discipline.
• Previous experience in conducting ICP, UV-vis, Raman spectroscopy, and NMR and being able to process and analyze the generated data.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills as evident on application materials and interview.
• Experience writing technical papers and prepare technical presentations.

NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an interim basis.

Contact Information to Applicants

Additional Candidate Instruction

A complete online application includes a cover letter, letter of interest, resume, & 3 professional references. Only complete applications will be considered.
Candidates will be evaluated on (i) the candidate’s research experience, as evidenced by resume, letter of interest and cover letter, (ii) prior research publications and/or patent applications, (iii) references.

Application Review will begin 02/28/2023 and continue until a qualified pool of applicants is identified.

Advertised Salary Range

$50,000

Application Review Begins

28-Feb-2023

Anticipated Start Date

01-Mar-2023

Primary Campus

University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

Employee Class

U-Unclassified Professional Staff

Conditions of Employment

Contingent on Funding, Limited Term

Work Location Assignment

On-Site

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and are the Title IX coordinators for their respective campuses: Director of the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY (for the Lawrence, Edwards, Parsons, Yoder, and Topeka campuses); Director, Equal Opportunity Office, Mail Stop 7004, 4330 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway, KS 66205, 913-588-8011, 711 TTY (for the Wichita, Salina, and Kansas City, Kansas medical center campuses).