Postdoctoral Fellow - Synthetic Chemist

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Bloomington (IN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow - Synthetic Chemist at Indiana University Bloomington. The role involves managing academic research, developing new scientific techniques, and contributing to published literature in chemistry.

This position demands a Ph.D. in Chemistry and expertise in synthetic inorganic and organic chemistry. The salary is $50,000, and the position is non-tenure track with potential for extension based on performance.

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of synthetic inorganic and organic ligand chemistry.
• Experience in nanomaterial design for catalysis is a plus.
• Proficient in chemical purification and characterization techniques.

Responsibilities

• Manage own academic research and administrative activities.
• Develop new techniques and experimental protocols.
• Assist in setting up a new research laboratory.
• Contribute to scientific reports and journal articles.

Skills

Synthetic Inorganic Chemistry

Synthetic Organic Chemistry

Chemical Purification

Analytical Techniques (NMR, IR, mass spectrometry)

Project Management

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry

Tools

DFT Calculations

X-ray Diffraction

TEM

Schlenk Lines

Job description

Posting Details

Position Details
Title: Postdoctoral Fellow - Synthetic Chemist
Appointment Status: Non-Tenure Track
Department: IU Bloomington Chemistry
Location: Bloomington

Position Summary

The Department of Chemistry in the College of Arts & Sciences at Indiana University is a well-rounded research community with cutting‑edge expertise in a wide variety of modern disciplines, including analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, and biochemistry. The Zaleski Lab is accepting applications for a postdoctoral research position. The position involves the design and synthesis of hybrid molecular and nanomaterial catalysts. The desired start date is July 1, 2026, although this can be flexible to accommodate outstanding candidates. Successful applicants will have a deep understanding of synthetic inorganic and organic ligand chemistry, molecule preparation and purification, and may have experience in nanomaterial design for catalysis. A Ph.D. in any area of synthetic chemistry, strong background in solution‑phase synthetic preparations, and familiarity with air‑ and moisture‑sensitive chemicals are ideal. Demonstrable experience in chemical purification and characterization of starting materials and reaction products by standard techniques (NMR, IR, mass spectrometry, X‑ray diffraction, TEM) is required; DFT calculations are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Manage own academic research and administrative activities, including project management and meeting deadlines.
• Adapt existing and develop new scientific techniques and experimental protocols to achieve research objectives.
• Use specialist scientific equipment in a laboratory environment.
• Assist in setting up a new research laboratory at IU (e.g., setting up Schlenk lines, ordering equipment).
• Contribute ideas for new research projects.
• Undertake comprehensive literature reviews and write up results for publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles and occasionally present papers and posters.
• Act as a source of information and advice to other group members on scientific protocols and experimental techniques.
• Represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone.
• Carry out collaborative projects with colleagues in partner institutions and research groups.

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with organometallic synthesis and relevant analytical techniques (NMR, SXRD, mass‑spectrometry, etc.) is essential.
• Deep understanding of organic and/or inorganic synthesis.

Department Contact for Questions

Questions regarding the position or application process can be directed to: Prof. Jeff Zaleski, Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, [e-mail].

Salary and Rank

50,000

Special Instructions

The initial appointment for this position will be for 12 months. Additional 12‑month extensions are available based on performance. A competitive salary along with a benefits package will be offered.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, maximum five‑page research proposal, and contact information for three references to http://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/33329. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services and prohibits discrimination in hiring. See Indiana University Notice of Non‑Discrimination here which includes contact information.

Other Dates

• For Best Consideration Date: 06/10/2026
• Expected Start Date: 07/01/2026