Postdoctoral Research Associate – Collier Group

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate – Collier Group.

Location: Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi,
United States

Division: School of Polymer Science and Engineering

Position Type: Staff

Employment Status: Full Time

Grant Funded: No

Posting Close Date: August 1, 2026

Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants should send their CV and a cover letter explaining their interest in the position with at least two reference letters to Dr. Graham Collier (graham.collier).

Job Summary: This position will support ongoing projects focusing on synthesis and characterization of conjugated polymers for organic electronic applications. The post-doc will coordinate research activities, research personnel, laboratory activities, communications with research sponsors, data analysis, and dissemination of research results. The candidate will also assist the professor with managing research activities and reporting to funding organizations.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Synthesis of conjugated monomers and polymers via various polymerization techniques.
• Characterization of monomers and polymer materials by methods including NMR, FTIR, GPC, TGA, DSC, UV-vis absorbance, cyclic voltammetry, etc.
• Disseminate key results through reports, peer-reviewed publications, and conference presentations.
• Engage in problem solving, project planning, and development of research proposals.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) protocols.
• Mentor and train graduate and undergraduate students, manage laboratory equipment and processes.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues in a team environment.
• Maintain adherence to scientific ethics and safety standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must have earned a Ph.D. in polymer science and engineering, polymer chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, or closely related fields.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge and expertise in multi-step organic synthesis, purification, and laboratory techniques.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to mentor and train students in a research setting.
• Highly self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Preferred Qualifications: An excellent research record demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals. Familiarity with advanced characterization and microscopy techniques (AFM, TEM, X-rays, etc.).

About The University of Southern Mississippi: Since 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has been dedicated to student success. We serve over 13,000 students across multiple campuses and online, and are a Carnegie R1 research university. We are known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, and more, producing graduates in emerging fields and responding to workforce needs. For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The University is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.