Postdoctoral Associate in Polymer Science and Biocatalysts

University of Florida; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits package

Job summary

The University of Florida in Gainesville invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate in Polymer Science and Biocatalysts. The position focuses on developing non-natural biocatalytic reactions for synthesis, modification, and deconstruction of synthetic plastics, combining small molecule and polymer synthesis with protein engineering.

Qualified candidates hold a PhD in chemistry or related field, have a strong publication record, excellent communication, and the ability to work

Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry or closely related field.
• Able to start between January and August 2027.
• Strong publication record or evidence of research productivity.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Develop non-natural biocatalytic reactions for synthesis, modification, and deconstruction of synthetic plastics.
• Combine small molecule synthesis, polymer synthesis, and protein engineering to tackle selectivity challenges.
• Prior experience in protein engineering and/or gene manipulation is strongly preferred but not required; training opportunities available.
• Position initially awarded for one year, with potential renewal for up to one year depending on performance and funds.
• Salary is competitive with a full benefits package.

Skills

Strong publication record

Excellent communication skills

Analytical thinking

Independent work

Education

PhD in chemistry or related field

Job description

Postdoctoral Associate in Polymer Science and Biocatalysts

• University of Florida
• United States
• Oct 28, 2026

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About University of Florida

At the University of Florida, we are a people of purpose. We're committed to challenging convention and ourselves. We see things not as they are, but as they could be. And we strive for a greater impact: one measured in people helped...

Postdoctoral Associate in Polymer Science and Biocatalysts

PhD in chemistry or a closely related field.
Able to start between January and August 2027.
Strong publication record or evidence of research productivity.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking abilities.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a collaborative team.

Job Description:

This position focuses on the development of non-natural biocatalytic reactions for the synthesis, modification, and deconstruction of synthetic plastics. The project involves a combination of small molecule synthesis, polymer synthesis, and protein engineering to tackle long-standing selectivity challenges in the field of polymer science. Prior experience in protein engineering and/or gene manipulation is strongly preferred but not required for this position. Applicants wanting to gain training in any of these subfields are implored to apply.

This position will be initially awarded for one year, and, contingent upon strong performance and conduct and availability of funds, may be renewed for up to one year.

The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, and the compensation includes a full benefits package. To see more, visit, benefits.hr.ufl.edu.

Required Qualifications:

PhD in chemistry or closely related field.

Able to start between January and August 2027.

Strong publication record or evidence of research productivity.

Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking abilities.

Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a collaborative team.

Preferred:

Research experience in one or more of the following areas:

Polymer synthesis and characterization

Organic chemistry and asymmetric synthesis

High-throughput experimentation

Enzyme discovery, gene manipulation, and protein engineering.