Postdoctoral Researcher - Separations Engineering

About the role

The RRES Center at NLR has an opening for a full-time Postdoctoral Researcher within the Separations Science group. Our group is conducting research to enable realistic, cost-effective processes for biomass and waste feedstock conversion and chemical recycling of waste plastics. The initial appointment is for one year, with possible renewal up to three years.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate adsorption resin-based ISPR, electrochemical pH-swing ISPR, and other methods to recover a bio-based carboxylic acid
• Contribute to a project focused on integrated process development for bio-based polymers from cellulosic sugars
• Work safely and independently in a laboratory setting
• Plan and execute research in collaboration with other researchers
• Communicate scientific results effectively, both in written and oral formats
• Author peer-reviewed publications
• Work effectively in a large, multidisciplinary team of engineers and chemists

Requirements

• Must be a recent PhD graduate within the last three years
• Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date
• Expertise and experience in designing, operating, and scaling novel separations processes
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Strong record of quality peer-reviewed publications
• Strong safety record and ability to follow complex standard operating procedures

Qualifications

• Recent PhD graduate within the last three years
• Expertise and experience in designing, operating, and scaling novel separations processes
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Strong record of quality peer-reviewed publications
• Strong safety record and ability to follow complex standard operating procedures

Skills

• Familiarity with electrochemical, resin, or crystallization separations
• Experience with ISPR

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Short-term disability insurance
• Pension benefits
• 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match
• Life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance
• Personal time off (PTO) and sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Performance-, merit-, and achievement-based awards
• Relocation expense reimbursement (eligibility varies)

Pay

Annual Salary Range: $76,600 - $126,400

Schedule

Hours Per Week: 40

Working at NLR

NLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado. It is the nation's primary laboratory for energy systems research and development. Join the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), where world-class scientists, engineers, and experts are accelerating energy innovation through breakthrough research and systems integration. From our mission to our collaborative culture, NLR stands out in the research community for its commitment to an affordable and secure energy future. Spanning foundational science to applied systems engineering and analysis, we focus on solving complex challenges to deliver advanced, secure, reliable, and cost-effective energy solutions. Our work helps strengthen U.S. industries, support job creation, and promote national economic growth. At NLR, you'll find a mission-driven environment supported by state-of-the-art facilities, multidisciplinary research teams, and strong collaborations with industry, academia, and other national laboratories. We offer robust professional development opportunities, and a competitive benefits package designed to support your career and well-being.