Associate Research Scientist​/CAER

University of Kentucky

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status.

Department:
Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER), Lexington, KY.

Position Type:
Staff, Full-Time, Grade 46, Salary $52,021–$85,800 per year.

The Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) seeks an Associate Research Scientist in the Sustainable & Alternative Fuels group. The incumbent will develop and optimize catalytic processes for the production and upgrading of renewable fuels and chemicals, with emphasis on renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel.

• Conduct fundamental and applied research on catalytic processes for the conversion and upgrading of biomass- and waste-derived feed stocks to renewable fuels and chemicals.
• Design, operate, and optimize laboratory- and pilot-scale reactor systems to evaluate catalyst and process performance.
• Develop experimental methods to better understand reaction pathways, catalyst activity, selectivity, stability, and deactivation mechanisms.
• Characterize catalysts, feed stocks, and products using advanced analytical tools (GC, GC‑MS, XRD, XPS, SEM, TEM, BET, and related techniques).
• Maintain laboratory protocols and safety procedures.
• Assist the principal investigator with writing proposals, reports, and preparing technical presentations for sponsors.
• Present research findings at conferences and publish in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Collaborate with internal and external researchers and stay informed with advances in catalysis, renewable fuels, and sustainable aviation fuel research.

• Master’s degree in chemistry or other physical sciences, or equivalent graduate‑level education.
• Intermediate level of experience; ability to independently evaluate and apply analytical procedures and techniques.
• Experience in designing and operating laboratory- or pilot-scale reactor systems is preferred.
• Strong analytical skills and familiarity with advanced characterization techniques.
• Effective communication skills for writing proposals, reports, and presentations.
• Ability to work collaboratively and contribute to team goals.

Lifting, pushing, or pulling objects up to 50 lbs. Occasional nights and weekends as required.