Postdoctoral Scholar Opportunities in Industrial Decarbonization and Energy Systems

The Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (http://cbe.nd.edu) at the University of Notre Dame invites applications for Postdoctoral Scholar opportunities from individuals focusing on Industrial Decarbonization and Energy Systems. Successful candidates will join a collaborative interdisciplinary research team focused on developing next-generation methods for assessing existing and future energy systems. Each opportunity is a one-year appointment with the possibility of renewal; we are seeking two (2) Postdoctoral Scholars to advance research in the following areas: Role 1: Bottom-Up Industrial Technology Modeling: The scholar will develop bottom-up models of conventional and emerging fuel and chemical production technologies across alternative feedstocks. This involves combining first-principles engineering (thermodynamics, kinetics) with data-driven approaches to estimate facility-level material and energy flows, costs, and uncertainty ranges. Sectors include petroleum and bio-oil refining and the production of emissions-intensive bulk chemicals such as ethylene, ammonia, methanol, and chlorine. The role will utilize process simulation tools to assess material/energy integration and economies of scale.Role 2: Energy Systems Modeling and Emerging Technology Evaluation: The scholar will conduct interdisciplinary research in energy systems engineering modeling to evaluate and optimize emerging energy technologies. This role focuses on systems-level assessments of new technologies to identify innovation potential, feasibility, and optimal transition timing. The successful candidate will leverage analytical approaches including Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA), optimization, and machine learning to understand how these technologies integrate into broader energy and industrial networks. Shared, common responsibilities for each Postdoctoral Scholar Opportunity will be: Conducting computational modeling, simulations, and advanced data analysis to support research objectives;Preparing manuscripts for publication and contributing to the scholarly dissemination of research findings;Supporting research planning, literature analysis, and the development of research methods;Participating in group meetings and collaborative discussions within a multi-institutional research consortium; Qualifications Candidates For Each Opportunity Must Posess The Following A Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field awarded within the last five years.Experience with computational modeling, programming best practices, AI/ML tools and simulation workflows.Strong written communication skills, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications.Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research-focused environment. Candidates wishing to apply for Role 1 must demonstrate an expertise in process simulation and bottom-up technology modeling. Candidates wishing to apply for Role 2 must posess a strong technical background in energy systems analysis, specifically LCA and TEA. Application Instructions Candidates should provide the following: A cover letter, explaining your motivation and fit for the role (either Role 1, or Role 2); a current Curriculum Vitae (C); an official or unofficial copy of diploma(s); contact information for three (3) professional references, and up to two (2) relevant publications or writing samples. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity. Dual Career Assistance To support relocating families, Notre Dame’s Dual Career Assistance Program helps spouses and partners pursue local career opportunities. Background Check This appointment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Applicants will be asked to identify all felony convictions and/or pending felony charges. Felony convictions do not automatically bar an individual from employment. Each case will be examined separately to determine the appropriateness of employment in the particular position. Failure to be forthcoming or dishonesty with respect to felony disclosures can result in the disqualification of a candidate. The full procedure can be viewed at https://facultyhandbook.nd.edu/?id=link-73597.