Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

We are seeking a highly motivated and driven postdoctoral associate to join the Koenig Lab for a collaborative project on designing a novel particle-loaded fabric mask for filtering particles from air. This role offers an excellent opportunity to apply particle engineering skills to a real-world application, with additional focus on battery technology and materials analysis.

About the Role

The selected candidate will work on a collaborative project involving academic researchers and a small business. The position includes opportunities to grow an industrial and academic network through conference presentations and regular updates to project sponsors.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize and characterize inorganic particulate materials.
• Apply coating processes to deposit particles onto fabrics and assess coating efficacy across fabric types.
• Scale the process to pilot-scale production.
• Coordinate with third-party testing and validation efforts.
• Contribute to particle characterization relevant to battery technology.
• Design experiments and develop models to achieve project milestones.
• Provide regular project progress updates to sponsors and coordinate report preparation.
• Utilize techniques such as glove box research, electrochemical characterization, filtration efficacy testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and custom transport measurements.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.

Qualifications

• Technical background in particle engineering, particle characterization, inorganic synthesis, electrochemical characterization, battery technology, or materials characterization (SEM, XRD).
• Experience with scripting/programming and/or developing and implementing transport models.
• Experience working with or starting a small business in a relevant technical field (preferred).
• Demonstrated scientific ability through publications and conference presentations.
• Strong communication skills for presenting research findings, results, and analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Motivation to learn new skills, willingness to take on challenges, and scientific curiosity.

Pay

Estimated salary range: $57,000 – $60,000, commensurate with experience.

Schedule

This is a one-year appointment with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

Benefits

For information on benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.