Post-Doctoral Associate - Neurock Research Group

University of Minnesota; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 62,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Tuition benefit

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

The Neurock group at the University of Minnesota invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in computational electrocatalysis. The project uses ab initio methods, molecular dynamics and kinetic Monte Carlo to model electrode/electrolyte/solvent interfaces, focusing on the oxidation of N2 to nitrate with collaboration from experimental researchers.

Candidates should lead research efforts, mentor teammates, give talks, and publish in peer‑reviewed journals.

Qualifications

• PhD required in chemistry/chemical engineering or closely related field.
• Strong background in applying quantum mechanical methods to catalytic systems.
• Experience writing manuscripts for peer‑reviewed publications.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Carry out simulations of electrode surface oxidation/reduction across various electrolytes and potentials.
• Analyze data and present findings to the team and sponsors.
• Prepare project reports and publish results in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Collaborate with experimental researchers and mentor others as needed.

Skills

Independent research

Manuscript writing

Oral communication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

Ab initio methods

Molecular dynamics

Kinetic Monte Carlo

Job description

Job Information

Job ID: 374992

Location: Twin Cities

Job Family: Academic

Full/Part Time: Full-Time

Regular/Temporary: Regular

Job Code: 9546

Employee Class: Acad Prof and Admin

About the Job

The Neurock group is currently looking to hire a postdoc in the area of computational electrocatalysis: The research involves the application and development of ab initio methods, molecular dynamics and kinetic Monte Carlo simulations to model electrocatalytic oxidation and reduction reactions that occur at electrode/electrolyte/solvent interfaces. This includes the electrocatalytic transformations that occur at electrode/electrolyte/solvent interfaces as well as in electrolyte solutions. More specifically, we are looking at the electrocatalytic oxidation of N2 to nitrate. This is a collaborative project where we are examining the selective oxidation of N2 over that of H2O and the role of the local electrochemical environment in driving this reaction.

This project involves close collaboration with experimental researchers. Applicants should be highly motivated, hard-working and independent and have a strong background in the application and development of quantum mechanical methods to catalytic and electrocatalytic systems and kinetic modeling. More information about our research group can be found at our website: https://neurock.cems.umn.edu/

Candidates are expected to lead scientific research efforts, mentor and collaborate with others, give scientific presentations and write scientific reports and manuscripts. They will have a number of opportunities for professional development.

Job Duties

The candidate will carry out simulations to examine the oxidation and reduction reactions of interests on different electrode surfaces in the presence of different solutions and electrolytes and as a function of potential. Duties will include simulations, analysis and presentation; manuscript writing, development and publication in peer reviewed journals.

• 60% Potential dependent ab initio molecular dynamics simulations
• 20% data analysis and dissemination
• 10% preparation of project reports for sponsors and meeting with sponsors and other team members
• 10% collaborative work, mentoring, and professional development

Required Qualifications

• PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or closely related field.
• Proven track‑record of independent research, critical thinking, and successful academic publications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience in writing manuscripts for peer‑reviewed publications
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Excellent organizational and time management skills

Preferred Qualifications

• A strong background in computational chemistry and computational catalysis.
• Strong track record of scientific productivity as well as experience in managing several projects simultaneously
• Proven publication track record

About the Department

This position is in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science in the College of Science and Engineering on the East Bank Campus of the University of Minnesota‑Twin Cities. For more information on CEMS please visit our website: https://cse.umn.edu/cems

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $62,232 - $65,000 per year; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world‑renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022‑2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work‑life flexibility.