Post Doctoral Research Associate - Auerbach Group

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); Hybrid; USD 62,838 - 71,033; Full time

Job summary

The Auerbach Group at University of Massachusetts Amherst in the Chemistry Department seeks a Postdoctoral Fellow to explore quantum tunneling effects in chemical reactions within complex systems, combining theory and computation with experimental data.

The successful candidate will publish results, mentor students, and contribute to CNS strategic priorities. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement with standard academic hours and competitive salary.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field.
• Strong fundamental background in theoretical chemistry or physics.
• Experience with computational chemistry methods and programming languages.

Responsibilities

• Fundamental representations of quantum tunneling in chemical reactions.
• Applications of tunneling phenomena in complex molecular systems.
• Development and refinement of theoretical models (e.g., semiclassical) and computational methods.
• Integration of quantum mechanical insights with experimental data.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students within the group.

Skills

Theoretical chemistry

Computational chemistry

Programming

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Physics or related field

Job description

Title: Post Doctoral Research Associate - Auerbach Group

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: College of Natural Sciences

Department: Chemistry

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full Time

Work Arrangement: Hybrid

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.

Essential Functions

• Fundamental representations of quantum tunneling in chemical reactions.
• Applications of tunneling phenomena in complex molecular systems.
• Development and refinement of theoretical models (e.g., semiclassical) and computational methods.
• Integration of quantum mechanical insights with experimental data.
• Potential applications in materials science, catalysis, and other relevant fields.

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.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.
• 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.

Additional Details

At UMass Amherst and in CNS, we strive to be a community where every individual feels a sense of belonging, where every individual is included, and where every individual is valued. These values and goals are reflected in the College of Natural Sciences’ Inclusive Excellence framework and in the UMass Amherst’s 2024–2034 Strategic Plan: “For the Common Good.”

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 employee’s 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