Postdoctoral Research Associate - Sustainable Packaging

This position will develop wood-fiber based solutions for sustainable packaging, focusing on development of base papers and barrier coatings, using nanocellulose materials and other biobased materials. The goal is to create films and coatings that meet barrier properties for food packaging with suitable viscosity and thermal stability for commercial scale use. The position is a joint postdoctoral fellowship between the University of Maine and the USFS Forest Products Laboratory in Madison, Wisconsin, with a typical hiring salary up to $50,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, or Pulp and Paper Science and Engineering/Forestry, or similarly related fields.
• Prior research experience related to lignocellulosic materials, their processing and value-added product development.
• Prior research experience in biobased films and coatings for use in recyclable food packaging.
• Demonstrated strong ability to develop reports/manuscripts.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.

• Experience working with cellulose nanomaterials.
• Experience in food packaging design, particularly using AI/ML tools.
• Ability to perform in diverse working settings, e.g., industrial clients, students, and other researchers.
• Experience in lignocellulose refining processes, enzyme treatment of lignocellulosic materials.

Benefits include tuition benefits for employees and dependents, comprehensive insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision, life, short and long term disability), and retirement plan options.

The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment.

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