26.08.05 Postdoc, Quantum Tunneling Theory and Computation, UMass Amherst

Computational Chemistry List Home; Amherst (CO); Hybrid; USD 63,000 - 71,000; Full time

Job summary

The Auerbach Group at UMass Amherst is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to advance research on quantum tunneling in chemical reactions within complex systems. You will develop and apply semiclassical models and grid-based computational methods, and integrate quantum insights with experimental data.

The position offers opportunities to mentor students, collaborate across CNS, and publish in leading journals.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Strong fundamental background in theoretical chemistry or physics.
• Experience with computational chemistry methods and/or quantum mechanics calculations.
• Experience with programming languages relevant to computational chemistry.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish results.
• Excellent communication and collaborative skills.

Responsibilities

• Creating fundamental representations of quantum tunneling in chemical reactions.
• Developing and refining theoretical models (e.g., semiclassical) and computational methods (e.g., grid based approaches).
• Integrating quantum mechanical insights with experimental data.
• Designing studies of tunneling in materials science, catalysis, and other relevant fields of interest to the postdoc.
• Drafting manuscripts for publication.
• Mentor other group members: The successful candidate will have ample opportunities to mentor undergraduate and graduate students in the Auerbach group, adding research mentoring as a developed skill in their portfolio to aid them in applying for future professional positions.

Skills

Theoretical chemistry

Quantum mechanics

Computational methods

Programming

Independent research

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field

Tools

Grid-based methods

Job description

26.08.05 Postdoc, Quantum Tunneling Theory and Computation, UMass Amherst

Job Summary The Auerbach Group is seeking a motivated and talented Postdoctoral Fellow to join our research group in the Department of Chemistry. The successful candidate will conduct cutting‑edge research on the fundamentals and applications of quantum tunneling effects in chemical reactions occurring in complex systems. This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to advancing our understanding of quantum mechanical processes in chemistry, surface science, and their practical applications. The successful applicant will have significant freedom to choose application areas of interest to them.

Essential Functions

• Creating fundamental representations of quantum tunneling in chemical reactions.
• Developing and refining theoretical models (e.g., semiclassical) and computational methods (e.g., grid based approaches).
• Integrating quantum mechanical insights with experimental data.
• Designing studies of tunneling in materials science, catalysis, and other relevant fields of interest to the postdoc.
• Drafting manuscripts for publication.

Other Functions

• Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
• Work in partnership with colleagues within the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) community and across the campus to support CNS strategic priorities.
• Mentor other group members: The successful candidate will have ample opportunities to mentor undergraduate and graduate students in the Auerbach group, adding research mentoring as a developed skill in their portfolio to aid them in applying for future professional positions.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Strong fundamental background in theoretical chemistry or physics.
• Experience with computational chemistry methods and/or quantum mechanics calculations.
• Experience with programming languages relevant to computational chemistry.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish results.
• Excellent communication and collaborative skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with quantum tunneling calculations.
• Familiarity with classical and/or quantum molecular dynamics simulations.
• Background in modeling complex systems or multi‑scale modeling.
• Prior experience with mentoring research coworkers such as undergraduate or younger graduate students.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement Monday-Friday, 8:30am‑5:00pm, with the possibility of required work during other windows of time such as conferences, as needed to fulfill the goals of the position. This position has the opportunity for a hybrid work schedule, which is defined by the University as an arrangement where an employees work is regularly performed at a location other than the campus workspace for a portion of the week.

Salary Information

Salary minimum is determined by collective bargaining agreement based on years of experience. Salary may exceed the floor and will be determined by the PI (final salary will be stated in offer letter). Current floors based on 100% time, 40 hours/week:

• 0-2 years $62,838
• 3-4 years $66,287
• 5+ years $71,033