Post Doc Research Associate – Emissions Catalysis

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments called Directorates, each focused on a specific area of scientific research or function. The Energy and Environment Directorate delivers science and technology solutions for the nation’s energy and environmental challenges, supporting the Department of Energy (DOE) in modernizing the power grid, advancing renewable energy and efficiency technologies, and resolving complex issues in nuclear science and environmental management.

The Energy Processes and Materials Division, part of the Energy and Environment Directorate, creates real-world solutions supporting DOE’s goals for national energy security. We deliver technologies connecting fundamental science to applications in energy storage, advanced materials manufacturing, applied catalysis, biomass conversions, carbon capture and utilization, and hydrogen production. Our systems perspective includes discovery, technology development, scale-up, and economic, regulatory, and market considerations for successful commercialization.

About the role

PNNL and the Institute for Integrated Catalysis (IIC) lead in catalysis research, providing multidisciplinary solutions to complex energy and environmental challenges. The Advanced Energy Systems Group has an opening for a postdoctoral research associate in emissions catalysis, focusing on heterogeneous catalyst development and testing for decarbonization and environmental applications.

The successful candidate will work with project teams to evaluate catalysts, pursue structural and functional understanding using state-of-the-art instruments, and collaborate with computational chemistry staff. The position emphasizes engine exhaust aftertreatment, particularly advanced catalyst development for internal combustion engines using low-carbon fuels. Research will address barriers in aftertreatment and explore mitigation strategies tailored to low-carbon fuel applications. The candidate will also engage with PNNL’s biofuels and waste-upgrading initiatives related to heterogeneous catalysis and chemical engineering.

Responsibilities

• Interact, communicate, and collaborate with a diverse team of research staff.
• Take initiative and work independently as needed.
• Lead manuscript development and maintain a strong publication record in peer-reviewed scientific literature.
• Present research at conferences and project review meetings.
• Participate in the development of research proposals.
• Train and mentor others.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD received within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Physical Chemistry.
• Strong record of publications.
• Demonstrated proficiency in heterogeneous catalysis.
• Expertise in emissions reduction catalysis.
• Experience in nanomaterial synthesis, characterization using spectroscopic techniques, and reaction kinetics measurements to study catalytic reaction mechanisms.
• Practical experience in measuring catalytic performance and reaction kinetics.
• Experience with spectroscopic tools (e.g., FTIR, NMR) for characterizing catalytic materials.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including a strong publication record and conference presentations.

Work Environment

Synthesis laboratory setting with fume hoods, ovens, and related equipment.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families.
• Robust telehealth care options and mental health benefits.
• Free wellness coaching and health savings/flexible spending accounts.
• Basic life insurance and disability insurance.
• Employee assistance program and business travel insurance.
• Tuition assistance, relocation support, and backup childcare.
• Legal benefits, supplemental parental bonding leave, and surrogacy/adoption assistance.
• Fertility support.
• Company-funded pension plan and 401(k) savings plan with company match.
• Up to 120 vacation hours per year and ten paid holidays.

Research Associates excluded. All benefits are dependent upon eligibility.

Pay

Minimum Salary: USD $69,000.00/year
Maximum Salary: USD $119,100.00/year

Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and determined by relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach applies to all positions except those governed by collective bargaining agreements or specific limited-term positions with defined pay rules.