Postdoc Research Associate in Chemistry

Position Title:

Postdoc Research Associate in Chemistry

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:

Summary of

Duties and Responsibilities:

The postdoctoral researcher will perform independent research on the design and synthesis of macrocycles and the development of skeletal editing reactions under the supervision of Assistant Professor Junqi Li in the Department of Chemistry at Iowa State University. A primary goal of this research project is to support the postdoctoral researcher's growth as an independent researcher and will ideally produce at least one peer-reviewed publication.

The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to train and mentor junior graduate and undergraduate students in the Li lab. The postdoctoral researcher will also be expected to lead the research group in maintaining a safe and conducive work environment for all researchers in the laboratory.

Required

Minimum Qualifications:

* Ph.D. in Chemistry

* Proficiency in air-free techniques and Schlenk line operations.

Preferred Qualifications:

* Experience in asymmetric synthesis

* Experience in structural analysis using 2D NMR

* Experience in transition metal-catalyzed reactions

* Strong scientific writing skills demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications, grant contributions, or technical reports, with the ability to clearly communicate complex research findings

* Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research.

Department/Program & College

Description:

The Department of Chemistry at Iowa State University is proud to offer dynamic research opportunities in analytical and bioanalytical chemistry, inorganic and materials chemistry, organic and bioorganic chemistry, physical and theoretical chemistry, and chemical education. Located in Gilman Hall and Hach Hall on the ISU campus, our department is home to dedicated faculty, staff, graduate students, and cutting-edge research laboratories. We are committed to fostering a supportive and engaging environment that prioritizes both the academic success and personal well-being of our outstanding chemistry majors.

Department Unit/Website:

Department of Chemistry

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:

May 18, 2026

Posting Close Date:

June 18, 2026

Job

Requisition Number:

R19231

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. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. , email eooffice.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.