Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

A postdoctoral position in heterogeneous catalysis, is available starting in August 11 2025, under the direction of Professor Ayman Karim in the Department of Chemical Engineering.

The selected candidate will conduct research on selective hydrogenation catalysis on supported metal single atoms and subnanometer clusters. The work is focused on building structure activity relations through controlled catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements and characterization using multiple in-situ techniques including calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAFS). In addition to independent experimental studies, there will be opportunities to train and to mentor graduate students within the Karim group.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop catalyst synthesis methods.
• Characterize the catalysts using conventional and spectroscopic techniques (see required and desired qualifications above).
• Detailed kinetic measurements.
• Develop experimental protocols for calorimetry measurements of the catalysts.
• To produce manuscripts to disseminate performed research.
• To attend, contribute and present in National and International Meetings.
• To provide guidance to students in the research group.
• To assist in developing new research directions and in writing proposals.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in chemistry, physical chemistry, chemical engineering or related field is required by the start date.
• Extensive experience in heterogeneous catalysis including catalyst synthesis, kinetic measurements and catalyst characterization using infrared spectroscopy and other conventional techniques (e.g. XRD, BET measurements, gas chemisorption, temperature programmed reduction and oxidation).
• Strong track record of scientific productivity and publications.
• Experience managing more than 1 project simultaneously.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with others.

Desired Qualifications:

1. Experience working with a glovebox.

2. Experience with calorimetry.

3. Experience with XAFS measurements and data analysis.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us/en/job/R0072420 and attach a cover letter indicating research interests, a detailed curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the CV box. Make sure to upload all the documents to complete your application.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on May 23, 2025 and will continue until the position is filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment that may be renewed for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Professor Ayman Karim at pqg9zx@virginia.edu.

For questions about the application process, please contact Richard Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@Virginia.edu.

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

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physicians Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experience. We are equal opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.