Post Doctoral Scholar, Chemistry

CHEManager International; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 51,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Central Florida (UCF) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar in the College of Sciences, Department of Chemistry. The initial appointment is for one year and may be renewed based on funding and progress. Work with Dr.

Shengli Zou on computational chemistry focused projects, and contribute to manuscripts, conferences, and grant reports. Responsibilities include mentoring students and collaborating across the team.

Qualifications

• A doctorate in computational chemistry or a closely related field from an accredited institution by time of hire is required.
• Strong background in theoretical and computational chemistry.
• Proficiency in relevant software, operating system, and programming languages.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Principal Investigator (Dr. Shengli Zou).
• Conduct advanced computational chemistry research focusing on nanophotonics, quantum mechanics, and ML-assisted modeling and simulations.
• Prepare manuscripts and conference presentations.
• Assist with writing grant reports.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students.

Skills

Theoretical chemistry

Computational chemistry

Programming languages

Machine learning

Education

PhD in computational chemistry

Tools

Chemistry software

Operating systems

Programming languages

Job description

The University of Central Florida (UCF) chemistry department in the College of Sciences (COS) seeks to hire a Postdoctoral Scholar. The initial appointment will be for one year and may be renewed based on the availability of funding and satisfactory progress on the research project.

Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with the Principal Investigator (Dr. Shengli Zou).
• Conduct advanced computational chemistry research with a focus on nanophotonics, quantum mechanics, and machine learning-assisted modeling and simulations.
• Prepare manuscripts and conference presentations.
• Assist the Principal Investigator with writing grant reports.
• Assist the Principal Investigator with mentoring undergraduate and graduate students.

Minimum Qualifications

A doctorate in computational chemistry or a closely related field from an accredited institution by time of hire is required. Strong background in theoretical and computational chemistry. Proficiency in relevant software, operational system, and programming languages.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidates who have demonstrated significant contributions in computational chemistry, nanoscience, nanotechnology, catalysis, and/or sensing. Track record of high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals. Experience in Machine learning.

Additional Application Materials Required

UCF requires all applications and supporting documents to be submitted electronically through the Human Resources employment opportunities website, https://www.ucf.edu/jobs/. In addition to the online application, candidates should upload:

• CV/Resume
• Cover letter with research interest
• Names and contact information for three professional references, with at least two being academic references (including their positions/titles, affiliations, email addresses, and phone numbers).

Benefits Of The Position Include

Competitive salary and benefits package, with a starting salary of $57,000. The position offers opportunities for professional growth and career development. The appointment is renewable based on mutual agreement and the availability of funding. UCF provides a vibrant and inclusive research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.

Application review will begin on September 1st, and the position will remain open until filled. The expected start date is after October 1, 2026.

Department

College of Sciences (COS) - Department of Chemistry

Work Schedule

Varies

Type of Appointment

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Expected Salary

$57,000.00

Unless explicitly stated on the job posting, it is UCF's expectation that an employee of UCF will reside in Florida as of the date the employment begins.

Additional Requirements Related To Research Positions

Pursuant to Florida State Statute 1010.35, prior to offering employment to certain individuals in research-related positions, UCF is required to conduct additional screening. Applicants subject to additional screening include any citizen of a foreign country who is not a permanent resident of the U.S., or who is a citizen or permanent resident but is affiliated with or has had at least 1 year of education, employment, or training in China, Cuba, Iran, Russia, North Korea, Syria, or Venezuela.

The additional screening requirements only apply to research-related positions, including, but not limited to faculty, graduate positions, individuals compensated by research grants or contract funds, post-doctoral positions, undergraduate positions, visiting assistant professors, and visiting research associates.

The University of Central 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.

UCF is proud to be a smoke-free campus and an E-Verify employer.