Post-Doctoral Researcher - Chemical, Biology & Material Engineering

University of South Florida; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Thompson Group at the University of South Florida is seeking a post‑doctoral researcher to design, synthesize, characterize, and evaluate supported single‑atom and metal clusters on thin‑film oxides for catalytic and energy‑storage applications. Research includes light hydrocarbon upgrading and ammonia synthesis, with in situ and ex situ characterization.

Under Professor Thompson, you will collaborate with Kuhn, Andiappan, and Bhethanabotla to explore catalyst interactions and reaction

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree from an accredited institution in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• PhD in Chemical Engineering or Materials Science and Engineering preferred.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize high-surface-area thin-film oxides using advanced deposition techniques.
• Prepare supported single-atom and metal-cluster catalysts via impregnation and precipitation.
• Characterize bulk and surface properties with XRD, electron microscopy, TPD, and XPS.
• Conduct catalytic testing to determine activities and selectivities; study mechanisms via kinetics.
• Present results at local, national, and international meetings.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation for peer‑reviewed journals.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Skills

Oral and written communication

Collaborative teamwork

Catalysis characterization techniques

Research methodology

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering

PhD in Materials Science and Engineering

Job description

Post-Doctoral Researcher

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 use in catalytic and energy‑storage applications. Key target research topics are light hydrocarbon upgrading and ammonia synthesis. Under the supervision of Professor Thompson (PI) with mentorship from Professors John Kuhn, Mari Andiappan, and Venkat Bhethanabotla, the post‑doctoral researcher will investigate the synergistic interactions between the 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 techniques including 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 from research at local, national, and international meetings.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation for publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Perform job‑related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral degree from an accredited institution with the appropriate experience and training in Chemical Engineering or a 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 a 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 researchers.
• Experience with typical catalyst characterization techniques.
• Understanding of general and specific laboratory safety procedures.

Compliance and Federal Notices

May be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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.

This job description does not constitute an employment contract.