Postdoctoral Research Associate - Plasma Science and Engineering

Position Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Plasma Science and Engineering

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:

Summary of

Duties and Responsibilities:

We are seeking highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associates to conduct cutting-edge research in plasma science and engineering, with an emphasis on non-thermal plasma technologies for sustainable chemical processes. Successful candidates will contribute to developing innovative solutions for nitrogen fixation, renewable resource valorization, and waste-to-value conversion while working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.

Key Responsibilities

* Develop and advance non-thermal plasma-based technologies for:

* Nitrogen fixation

* Valorization of renewable feed stocks

* Conversion of waste streams into value-added products

* Design, build, and optimize plasma reactors and related experimental systems.

* Conduct thermodynamic and kinetic analyses of plasma-driven chemical processes.

* Perform chemical and materials characterization using appropriate analytical techniques.

* Assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in managing laboratory operations, coordinating research activities and collaborations, and maintaining a safe and productive research environment.

* Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate students.

* Collaborate with internal and external research partners on multidisciplinary projects.

* Prepare technical reports, conference presentations, and peer-reviewed publications.

* Communicate research findings effectively through written reports, publications, presentations, and interactions with collaborators.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to transformative research at the intersection of plasma science, sustainable manufacturing, and circular economy technologies. Candidates with a passion for innovation, strong communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are encouraged to apply.

Required

Minimum Qualifications:

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related disciplines.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:

* Plasma physics and plasma chemistry

* Reaction kinetics and thermodynamics in plasma environments

* Renewable and sustainable chemical processes

* Conversion of nitrogen, biomass, or waste streams into fuels, chemicals, or materials

* Hands-on experience with:

* Plasma reactor design and operation

* Experimental diagnostics and system integration

* Chemical, materials, or spectroscopic analysis techniques

* Record of scholarly productivity, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, patents, and/or other significant research contributions.

* Strong written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through technical reports, research proposals, invited presentations, student mentoring, and collaborative research activities

Department/Program & College

Description:

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Iowa State University is where innovation thrives, and the impossible is made possible. This is where your passion for problem-solving and hands-on learning can make a real difference in our world. Whether you're helping improve the environment, creating safer automobiles, or advancing medical technologies and athletic performance, the Department of Mechanical Engineering gives you the tools and talent to blaze your own trail to an amazing career.

Department Unit/Website:

Department of Mechanical Engineering - Iowa State University

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

* Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans

* Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans

* Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)

* Life insurance and long-term disability

* Flexible Spending Accounts

* Various voluntary benefits and discounts

* Employee Assistance Program

* Wellbeing program

* Iowa State offers Work Flex options for some positions. Work Flex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment, or call  or Toll Free:

Proposed

Start Date:

August 3, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

Post Docs

Original Posting Date:

June 30, 2026

Posting Close Date:

July 14, 2026

Job

Requisition Number:

R19514

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S.…