Computational Materials Science Researcher

Computational Materials Science Researcher

Join to apply for the Computational Materials Science Researcher role at Chico State Enterprises

This range is provided by Chico State Enterprises. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

$32.00/hr - $34.00/hr

POSITION: Computational Materials Science Researcher

STATUS: Part-Time / Non-Benefitted / Hourly / Non-Exempt

COMPENSATION: $32.00 - $34.00 per hour

DEPARTMENT: Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

RECRUITMENT : 400

RESIDENCY: Candidate must be a California resident. Chico State Enterprises is not a sponsoring agency for staff and management positions (i.e., H‑1B Visas).

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and working closely with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) scientists, the researcher will conduct research on lithium‑sulfur batteries, which theoretically have significantly higher energy densities compared to current battery chemistries, for up to 12 months. Specifically, the selected researcher will focus on atomistic simulations and modeling of structure, reactivity, and transport properties of lithium‑containing molecular species in heterogeneous interfaces with metal‑organic frameworks for advanced energy storage.

The researcher will work closely with an interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers at LLNL, CSU, Chico, and San Jose State University (SJSU); most of the researcher’s time will be spent interacting with staff researchers s work is expected to result in publications in nationally and internationally recognized journals, as well as applications in projects with renewable energy missions. The researcher will also be expected to work with and mentor undergraduate research students from a variety of academic backgrounds.

The major duty of the researcher is to conduct theoretical research under the supervision of Drs. Wan and Kim at LLNL and Dr. So at CSU, Chico. More specifically, the job duties tentatively include the following:

• Perform density functional theory‑based electronic structure calculations and/or classical molecular dynamics simulations in a high‑performance computing environment.
• Develop structure‑composition‑property relationships for optimizing transport and reactivity using statistical, analytical, and machine learning methodologies.
• Collect, prepare, and analyze research data; discuss results in group meetings.
• Contribute to and actively participate in the conception, design and execution of research to address defined problems.
• Collaborate with computational and experimental scientists at LLNL and SJSU to accomplish research goals.
• Document research, publish papers in peer‑reviewed journals, and present results within the DOE community and at conferences and technical meetings.
• Supervise student personnel and coordinate research efforts for increased efficiency; participate in the training of students and volunteer workers as needed.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

• Applicant must have a graduate degree in materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemistry, physics, or related field, specifically:
• PhD, earned within 5 years prior to employment.
• Experience in the application of density functional theory or molecular dynamics simulations of chemical reactions and/or transport phenomena in materials.
• Experience performing simulations in high‑performance computing environments.
• Ability to work independently on technical tasks, influence technical objectives, provide in-depth analysis, and develop unique technical solutions.
• Ability to develop independent research directions and describe results effectively in peer‑reviewed literature.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively in a team environment, prepare written reports, and present and explain technical information.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to interact with a diverse set of scientists, engineers, undergraduate and graduate students, and other technical and administrative staff in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

Preferred…