Postdoctoral Scholar Research

The Simmons Group at the University of South Florida is seeking applicants for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position focused on molecular dynamics simulations probing the nonlinear mechanics of elastomeric nanocomposites. The goal of this effort is to understand and ultimately enhance the microscopic mechanisms of nanocomposite toughness. The successful candidate will plan, execute, and analyze large-scale nanocomposite simulations, develop new computational tools for analysis of nonlinear mechanical response and energy dissipation in simulated nanocomposites, and work with and mentor more junior researchers performing related research in the Simmons group.

The Simmons group has a record of cutting-edge computational research in the dynamics and mechanics of nanocomposites and other interfacially rich materials. Recent group research in these areas has been published in journals including Nature, Nature Physics, The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and Macromolecules. For more on the Simmons group and recent publications, see the Simmons laboratory webpage at  This postdoctoral position is supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy focused on understanding nanocomposite mechanical strength.

The position is available as early as March 2026, with a start date no later than June 2026. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, physics, mechanical engineering, or a closely related field by their start date. Experience in molecular modeling or simulation is strongly preferred. Evidence of success in team research and in mentorship will be viewed favorably.

The Simmons group is located in the Department of Chemical, Biological, and Materials Engineering at the University of South Florida. USF is located in Tampa, a thriving metropolitan area of more than 3 million people situated in an idyllic location on Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Interested candidates should contact Dr. David Simmons at dssimmons and submit a detailed CV and contact information for three professional references for USF Job  [] via the USF hiring system by following the following link: []