Plant-Based Biomaterials Postdoc: Surface Chemistry

University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Knoxville (TN); On-site; USD 52,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in the Center for Renewable Carbon to explore plant-based routes for low surface energy materials. You will join Dr.

Mi Li’s group to design and evaluate biomaterial-based coatings, conducting independent and collaborative experiments. The appointment lasts 12 months with a possible renewal; anticipated start is January 1, 2027, contingent on funding and institutional approval.

Qualifications

• Must have a PhD in a closely related field such as wood science, chemical engineering, polymer chemistry, or materials science.
• Demonstrated research productivity and ability to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and communicate findings clearly.
• Hands-on experience in biomass chemistry, nanomaterials, surface characterization, or porous materials.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct independent and collaborative research in biomaterials and related areas.
• Plan and perform experiments; establish reproducible protocols and maintain research records.
• Synthesize and characterize low-surface energy chemicals from plant-based precursors.
• Design and assess materials with desired micro-/nano-structures.
• Prepare manuscripts, conference presentations, and contributions to proposals.
• Participate in meetings and contribute to an open, collaborative research culture.

Skills

Strong written and oral communication

Research productivity

Education

PhD in wood science or related field

Tools

NMR

FTIR

GC/MS

GPC

CNHS

TGA

DSC

SEM

Goniometer

Job description

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in the Center for Renewable Carbon to explore plant-based routes for low surface energy materials. You will join Dr.

Mi Li’s group to design and evaluate biomaterial-based coatings, conducting independent and collaborative experiments. The appointment lasts 12 months with a possible renewal; anticipated start is January 1, 2027, contingent on funding and institutional approval.