Postdoctoral Scholar

University of California - Merced; Merced (CA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Merced seeks a Postdoctoral Scholar to design and execute experiments in catalysis using transition metals, Lewis acid-based polymerization chemistry, and electrochemistry for organic synthesis. The role includes safe operation of reactions, product characterization, and mentoring students in the Findlater group.

The successful candidate will contribute to manuscript writing and advance core research programs, aligning with UC Merced's standards of excellence and

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry.
• Postdoc or equivalent experience.
• Publication Record.
• Research in Organometallic Chemistry.
• Synergy with Research Program.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments related to core research areas: catalysis with transition metals, Lewis acid catalysis in polymerization, and electrochemistry for organic synthesis.
• Safely perform chemical transformations and characterize products.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in the group.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and authorship.

Skills

Publication Record

Organometallic Chemistry experience

Synergy with research program

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry

Job description

Position overview

Position title: Postdoctoral Scholar

Salary range: See Table 23 for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $71,491-$85,736

Percent time: 100%

Anticipated start: January 11, 2027

Position duration: Two years

Application Window

Open date: August 31, 2026

Next review date: Thursday, Oct 1, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Thursday, Oct 1, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications will continue to be accepted until this date.

Position description

The postdoctoral scholar will be responsible for the design and execution of experiments related to the core research interests of the Findlater group. More specifically, these areas include: 1) catalysis employing transition metal elements, 2) Lewis acid based catalysis focused on polymerization chemistry and, 3) electrochemistry as applied to organic synthesis. Routine tasks will include the safe performance of chemical transformations and characterization of reaction products. The successful applicant will also engage in mentorship of graduate / undergraduate students in the group as appropriate and in the writing of manuscripts.

Qualifications

Basic qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry
• Postdoc or equivalent experience
• Publication Record
• Research in Organometallic Chemistry
• Synergy with Research Program

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research (Optional)

• Authorization to Release Information Form - As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

  Misconduct means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.

  Required Authorization of Information Release may be found at the linked page. Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application.

• Statement of Teaching (Optional)

Reference requirements

• 2 letters of reference required

Help contact: [e-mail]

About UC Merced

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

Misconduct means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.

Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application: Required Authorization of Information Release Form.

Candidates must possess valid authorization to work in the United States. UC Merced is not currently able to sponsor individuals residing outside the United States who would require a new H-1B visa for employment. Applicants who do not hold valid U.S. work authorization are presently ineligible for this position.

Additional links: UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy, the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy, and APM 035: Aff

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses. Ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and recently designated as an R1 institution by Carnegie, UC Merced is committed to innovation and excellence in research. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students (Center of Institutional Effectiveness), UC Merced provides outstanding, inclusive educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. This includes the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs.

Job location

Merced, CA