Post-Doctoral Researcher - Chemical, Biology & Material Engineering

usf.edu; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of South Florida is seeking a Post-Doctoral Researcher in Chemical, Biology & Material Engineering in Tampa, FL. The successful candidate will design and analyze supported catalysts on thin film oxides for catalytic and energy storage applications.

Under guidance of Prof. Thompson and with mentors from Kuhn, Andiappan and Bhethanabotla, the researcher will use in situ and ex situ methods to study synergistic effects and publish results in peer‑reviewed journals.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience with catalyst characterization techniques.
• Ability to work collaboratively with students, faculty and researchers.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize high surface area thin film oxides using advanced deposition techniques.
• Prepare supported single atom and metal cluster catalysts via impregnation and precipitation methods.
• Characterize bulk and surface properties with XRD, electron microscopy, TPD and XPS.
• Conduct catalytic testing to determine activity and selectivity; analyze kinetics.
• Present results at local, national and international meetings; contribute to publications.

Skills

Catalysis knowledge

Strong communication

Collaborative

Scientific writing

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Materials Science & Engineering

Job description

Post-Doctoral Researcher - Chemical, Biology & Material Engineering

Tampa, FL, United States

Position Summary

The Thompson Group is seeking a post‑doctoral researcher to conduct research in the design, synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of supported single atom and metal clusters on thin film oxides for catalytic and energy storage applications. Key target research topics are light hydrocarbon upgrading and ammonia synthesis. Under the supervision of Professor Thompson with mentorship from Professors John Kuhn, Mari Andiappan, and Venkat Bhethanabotla, the researcher will investigate synergistic interactions between supported catalysts using in situ and ex situ characterization and reaction testing techniques.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize high surface area thin film oxides by advanced deposition techniques
• Prepare supported single atom and metal cluster catalysts using impregnation and precipitation methods
• Characterize bulk and surface properties of catalysts using X‑ray diffraction, electron microscopy, temperature‑programmed techniques, and X‑ray photoelectron spectroscopy
• Conduct catalytic reaction testing to determine activities (e.g., turnover frequencies) and selectivities, and investigate reaction mechanisms via kinetic analysis
• Present results at local, national, and international meetings
• Contribute to manuscript preparation for publication in peer‑reviewed journals
• Perform other job‑related duties as assigned

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral degree from an accredited institution with experience and training in Chemical Engineering or related field. Must meet university criteria for the appointment rank of Post‑Doctoral Researcher.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Materials Science and Engineering, with deep knowledge of heterogeneous catalysis
• Ability to develop and execute research methodologies and protocols
• Effective oral and written communication and organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with students, faculty, and other researchersExperience with typical catalyst characterization techniques
• Understanding of general and specific lab safety procedures

Application Deadline

The position will remain open until October 1 2026, or until it is filled.

Legal Notice

The University of South Florida is an equal‑opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.