Postdoctoral Researcher—Photoelectrocatalysis

Postdoctoral Researcher – Photoelectrocatalysis

The National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher focused on fundamental and applied photoelectrocatalysis. The role supports DOE Basic Energy Science funded projects and engages in multidisciplinary team science to advance semiconductor photoelectrochemical materials and interfaces.

• Design and execute experiments to synthesize and characterize thin‑film semiconductor photoelectrodes for hydrogen evolution, CO₂ reduction, nitrate reduction, and OER.
• Employ chemical treatments, additive doping, surface functionalization, and strain engineering to tune optoelectronic and catalytic properties.
• Leverage in‑situ steady‑state (UV‑vis, IR, Raman, PL) and time‑resolved (IR, transient absorption) spectroscopies, microscopy (confocal Raman/PL, AFM), and product detection tools (mass spectrometry, GC) to probe mechanisms and durability.
• Analyze data, design experiments, and prepare manuscripts, presentations, and reports that communicate scientific findings.
• Collaborate with materials scientists, chemists, spectroscopists, and theoreticians to investigate surfaces, interfaces, and device stability.

• Required: Ph.D. earned within the last three years in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; demonstrated record of scientific writing, presentation, and publication.
• Preferred: Experience with photoelectrocatalysis, electrocatalysis, or photocatalysis for fuel‑forming reactions (HER, CO₂RR, NO₃RR, OER); spectroscopic or other characterization of (photo/electro) catalysts; semiconductor device physics; optoelectronic property characterization; synthesis and surface modification of thin films or nanoparticles; interfacial characterization techniques.

Initial appointment: 1 year, extendable up to 3 years total, contingent on performance and funding.

Annual Salary Range: $76,600 – $126,400. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, short‑term disability, pension, 403(b) savings plan with employer match, life insurance, paid time off, sick leave, paid holidays, and performance‑based awards.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, or any other protected status.