Postdoctoral Research Associate

Posting Number S06818P Position Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Functional Title Postdoc Department Chemistry Salary Range Starting at $50,000;
Dependent on Experience Pay Basis Monthly Position Status Regular full-time Location Richardson Position End Date (if temporary) Posting Open Date 01/16/2026 Posting Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Desired Start Date 03/01/2026

Job Summary

The Sterling Group at the University of Texas at Dallas is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to explore polymer upcycling. Our research program integrates automated computational modelling, theoretical physical organic chemistry and electronic structure theory to advance our understanding of chemical reactivity. We aim to develop new concepts and computational tools to drive innovation across chemistry, biochemistry, materials science, and pharmaceutical research.

We work closely with experimentalists to investigate reaction mechanisms, with an emphasis on catalysis and polymer chemistry.

Minimum Education and Experience

Ph.D in a related field.

Preferred

Education and Experience

* Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field.

* Experience with molecular dynamics simulations, applicable to materials science, biomolecules, or a related field.

* Programming experience (e.g., Python), with a strong background in developing and applying computational tools in research.

* Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a proven track record of publishing scientific papers and delivering presentations.

* Experience with machine learning techniques, particularly machine-learned interatomic potentials, in the context of chemical research.

* Knowledge of atomistic and coarse-grained classical force fields.

* Experience creating and maintaining scientific software.

Other Qualifications

To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

* Plan and execute computational studies related to modeling polymer properties.

* Collaborate as part of an interdisciplinary team to design computational experiments and validate models.

* Prepare reports and present findings at national and international conferences.

* Write manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

* Mentor graduate and undergraduate students.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions Physical Activities Working Conditions Additional Information

Work is conducted on site and in person.

What we have to

Offer:

UT Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer an employee-friendly work environment with a comprehensive benefit package including:

* Competitive Salary

* Tuition Benefits

* Medical insurance - including 100% paid employee medical coverage for full-time employees

* Dental Insurance

* Vision Insurance

* Long and short-term disability

* Retirement Plan Options

* Paid time off

* Paid Holidays

About UT Dallas

The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to graduating well-rounded members of the global community whose education has prepared them for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world. UT Dallas is a place where members of the community are welcomed, treated fairly, and encouraged to their pursuit of excellence.

UT Dallas employees have access to various professional development opportunities, including a membership to Academic Impressions, Linked In Learning, and UT Dallas Bright Leaders Program.

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Special Instructions Summary Important Message

1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public.

2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment.

The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator.