Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

Two postdoctoral positions in heterogeneous catalysis are available starting as early as January 2, 2027, under the direction of Professors Ayman Karim and Bill Epling in the Department of Chemical Engineering.

There are two projects available for the selected candidates.:

Selective bond activation on supported metal single atoms and subnanometer clusters. The work is focused on building structure activity relations through controlled catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements and characterization using multiple in-situ techniques including calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAFS). Improved product yields via dynamic reactor operation. The work is focused on how changing plug-flow catalytic reactor inlet conditions, such as pressure, temperature and feed composition, can tune a catalyst surface for improved rates, selectivities and longevity. This will involve reactor design, kinetic measurements and catalyst characterization to determine the underlying mechanistic reasons for the changes in catalytic behavior observed.

In addition to independent experimental studies, there will be opportunities to train and to mentor graduate students within the Karim and Epling groups.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop catalyst synthesis methods.
• Using plug flow reactors for steady-state and dynamic operation.
• Characterize the catalysts using conventional and spectroscopic techniques (see required and desired qualifications above).
• Detailed kinetic measurements.
• Develop experimental protocols for calorimetry measurements of the catalysts.
• Maintain lab reactors and characterization instrumentation.
• To produce manuscripts to disseminate performed research.
• To attend, contribute and present in National and International Meetings.
• To provide guidance to students in the research group.
• To assist in developing new research directions and in writing proposals.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in chemistry, physical chemistry, chemical engineering or 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 other conventional techniques (e.g. XRD, BET measurements, gas chemisorption, temperature programmed reduction and oxidation).
• Strong track record of scientific productivity and publications.
• Experience managing more than 1 project simultaneously.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with others.

Desired Qualifications:

1. Experience working with a glovebox.

2. Experience working with lab-scale reactors at elevated temperatures and pressures.

3. Experience with calorimetry and Raman spectroscopy.

4. Experience with XAFS measurements and data analysis.

5. Experience with mass spectrometry and infra-red spectroscopy for gas-phase concentration measurements.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0086627. Attach a cover letter indicating research interests, a detailed curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the CV box. Make sure to upload all the documents to complete your application.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on October 1, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment that may be renewed for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Professor Ayman Karim at pqg9zx@virginia.edu.

For questions about the application process, please contact Richard Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@Virginia.edu.

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.