Post- Doctoral Associate

UM01 University of Maryland College Park (UMCP); Maryland; On-site; USD 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research (IBBR) at the University of Maryland, College Park, invites applications for a Post‑Doctoral Associate to develop advanced multifunctional polymers for life sciences and high‑tech engineering. You will synthesize and characterize hybrid organic‑inorganic macromolecules for self‑assembling nanoscale systems and stimuli‑responsive materials.

The successful candidate will join NIH‑funded projects within a collaborative laboratory team,

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in polymer sciences, chemical engineering, or related field.
• Hands-on experience in synthesis, purification, and characterization of synthetic polymers.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to contribute in a multidisciplinary team setting.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop advanced multifunctional polymers for life sciences and high‑tech engineering applications.
• Synthesize, purify and characterize hybrid organic‑inorganic macromolecules for self‑assembling nanoscale systems.
• Collaborate within NIH‑funded projects and multidisciplinary teams.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Polymer characterization

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in polymer sciences or chemical engineering

Tools

NMR

SEC

AF4

DLS

MALS

ITC

Cryo-EM

Job description

Overview

IBBR is a joint research enterprise of the University of Maryland, College Park, the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. IBBR leverages state‑of‑the‑art integrative methods for bioanalytical, biophysical, and structural characterization of biomolecules to support accelerated delivery of safe and effective medicines to the public.

Responsibilities

The Post‑Doctoral Associate will develop advanced multifunctional polymers for cutting‑edge life sciences and high‑tech engineering applications. This involves synthesis and characterization of hybrid organic‑inorganic macromolecules for use in self‑assembling nanoscale systems and stimuli‑responsive materials. The resulting polymer structures and biomaterials are typically characterized by advanced analytical techniques such as NMR, SEC, AF4, DLS, MALS, ITC, and, in some cases, directly visualized by cryogenic electron microscopy. The successful applicant will conduct research in a collaborative environment of large industry and NIH‑funded projects within a multidisciplinary laboratory team.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in polymer sciences, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• Hands‑on experience in the synthesis, purification, and characterization of synthetic polymers.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to contribute in a multidisciplinary team setting.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and maintain a safe work environment.

Physical Demands

Able to perform conventional research tasks in the synthetic laboratory.

Application Materials

• Cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• List of references (minimum 3)

Salary & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $65,000. Regular Faculty benefits apply.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment.