Critical Minerals Recovery

The Department of Chemistry at the George Washington University in Washington, DC invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate Position in Prof. Lauren Pincus's lab ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). ) in the area of critical minerals recovery. The postdoctoral researcher will lead a research project on the design of sustainable and selective adsorbents for critical minerals recovery. Opportunities for professional development include mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers, contributing to grant proposals, conducting guest lectures, and learning advanced synchrotron spectroscopy techniques including XANES and XAFS.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue on a rolling basis. The position is available to start immediately with a preferred start date no later than January, 2026. This is a twelve-month appointment renewable for an additional six months based on performance and availability of funds. This position is made possible via funding from the ACS Sustainable Futures Initiative Grant Program.

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field

• A demonstrable understanding of critical minerals recovery and circular economy
• Prior research experience in the design, synthesis, and characterization of biopolymer or polymeric adsorption materials, particularly selective adsorbents
• Demonstrated ability to publish high-quality scientific papers in peer reviewed journals
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in collaboration with other researchers
• Strong project management skills, including coordinating teamwork and writing project reports
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Prospective candidates should submit their applications through the GW Job Board. Available via the following link:

• Contact information for three references (applicants will be notified before references are contacted)
• Two examples of scholarly output (published or submitted manuscripts).

The Pincus Lab's research aims to examine complexation of inorganic pollutants by natural and engineered solids using advanced synchrotron spectroscopy techniques. Our research goals include understanding and controlling the fate of inorganic pollutants in the environment, developing novel sustainable and selective materials for aqueous contaminant removal, and designing new techniques for climate change mitigation.

Rooted in the nation's capital, the Department of Chemistry is a lightning rod for scientific opportunity. Faculty and students enjoy the benefits of partnerships with laboratories, museums and funding agencies in the Washington, DC, area. The Science and Engineering Hall on the Foggy Bottom Campus houses state-of-the-art laboratories, lecture halls and core facilities. The building includes 500,000 square feet of teaching and research space and an open layout that encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration — as well as easy access between students and faculty.

This building also houses our Nanofabrication and Imaging Center. There, students work with the latest equipment in light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy and more.