Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

We are seeking to fill a postdoctoral associate position for a highly motivated and driven candidate in the Koenig Lab as part of a collaborative project on designing a novel particle loaded fabric mask for filtering particles from air. This is an excellent opportunity to learn and apply particle engineering skills and apply research towards a real world application. Also, the position will include analysis and characterization relevant to battery technology and materials.

Further, the selected candidate will have the opportunity to grow a strong industrial and academic network by attending and presenting at conferences, and by providing regular updates to the project sponsors.

Primary Responsibilities:

The chosen candidate will work on a collaborative project that includes other academic researchers and a small business. The project will include synthesis and characterization of inorganic particulate materials, applying coating processes to the deposit the particles onto fabrics, assessing the efficacy of the coatings on different fabric types, and scaling the process to pilot scale production. There will also be coordination with other aspects such as third party testing and validation.

As the research group also engages in battery technology research, the candidate would also contribute to particle characterization relevant to battery technology. The candidate will also have some capabilities in experimental design and modeling to achieve project milestones. Additionally, the candidate will provide regular project progress updates to the sponsor and coordinate on any necessary project reports. Techniques that will be applied include glove box research, electrochemical characterization, filtration efficacy, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and custom transport measurements.

Qualifications:

Minimum

Education Requirements:

• A Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.

Preferred

Experience and Skills:

• Technical background in particle engineering, particle characterization, inorganic synthesis, electrochemical characterization, battery technology, materials characterization (SEM, XRD), scaling of unit operations.
• Experience with scripting/programing, and/or developing and implementing transport models.
• Experience in working with or starting small business in technical field relevant to the posting.
• Demonstrated scientific ability through publications and presentation in scientific conferences.
• Ability to effectively and clearly communicate researching findings, results, and analysis.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Motivated to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity.

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.