Postdoctoral Research Associate - Chemistry

About the role

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to join the Barnes Research Group in the Department of Chemistry at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU). The starting date is flexible, preferred in Summer 2026, and can be as early as July 1, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize new polyacrylonitrile (PAN) copolymers with tailored stereochemistry (including controlled-tacticity polyacrylamides and related precursors).
• Conduct organic and polymer chemistry experiments focusing on monomer synthesis, radical-based polymerization methods, and post-polymerization functionalization/modification.
• Utilize various analytical techniques to quantify well-defined polymeric materials and their tacticity (IR, NMR, GPC, thermal analysis, etc.).
• Contribute to studies linking precursor stereochemistry to carbon fiber crystallinity (via Raman, XRD, DSC, mechanical testing, etc.).

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline completed by the time of employment.
• A successful track record of research accomplishments in polymer synthesis and characterization.
• Experience or strong interest in polymer-derived carbon materials, fiber processing, or crystallinity analysis is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• Excellent communication skills.
• Chemical hygiene/safety practices.
• Student mentoring experience.

Skills

• No specific skills are required for this position.

Benefits

Salary range is commensurate with experience. Benefits include:

• Cover Letter (1-2 pages) describing qualifications, career ambitions, and how this position can assist in these goals.
• Research Statement (2-3 pages) summarizing accomplishments and clearly describing work performed by the applicant, with emphasis on polymer synthesis and characterization, and any experience preparing carbon fibers.
• Current CV that includes up to 3 references who have agreed to be contacted if necessary.