Post-Doctoral Associate

Post-Doctoral Associate – University of Minnesota

Location: Twin Cities, MN

Posted on: October 02, 2025

Description:

• 40% on lignin plasma conversion
• 40% on catalytic upgrading of biomass
• 20% on biobased material development

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Environmental Engineering, or related fields (degree must be completed by start date).
• Strong background in biomass conversion, lignin chemistry, or catalysis.
• Demonstrated experience in laboratory research, including design, execution, and analysis of experiments.
• Proven ability to communicate research findings through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Plasma chemistry application in biomass conversion.
  • Catalytic upgrading of lignin (e.g., hydrotreating, hydrodeoxygenation).
  • Nanomaterials preparation from biomass
  • Biobased materials from cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin.
  • Biochar production and characterization.
• Skills in advanced characterization techniques (e.g., NMR, FTIR, GC–MS, HPLC, BET, SEM/TEM).
• Knowledge of techno-economic analysis (TEA) or life cycle assessment (LCA) of biomass-derived products.
• Strong writing skills and prior experience in proposal development or grant writing.
• Demonstrated interest in sustainable agriculture, circular bioeconomy, and renewable fuels/materials.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ or call .