Research Associate in Chemistry

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Venkatesh research group at the University of Virginia invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP)-enhanced NMR methods and apply them to materials characterization. The role includes mentoring students, publishing findings, and pursuing new research directions with opportunities for independent work.

We offer access to a range of high‑field NMR, EPR, and multidisciplinary facilities, with a collaborative environment and potential

Qualifications

• PhD by start date in a relevant field with strong NMR background.
• Preferred: experience with DNP-enhanced NMR or hyperpolarization methods.
• Record of peer‑reviewed publications and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement DNP-enhanced NMR methodologies.
• Apply methods to materials characterization and publish results.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers and contribute to collaborations.

Skills

NMR spectroscopy

independent research

mentoring

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science

Tools

DNP-enhanced NMR

solid-state NMR

EPR spectroscopy

Job description

The Venkatesh research group in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Virginia (UVA) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP)-enhanced NMR methodologies.

The successful candidate will develop and implement new DNP-enhanced NMR methods and apply them to materials characterization; publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences; mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers; and contribute to collaborative research efforts within and beyond UVA. The postdoctoral researcher will help define and pursue new research directions in DNP, with opportunities to develop independent ideas, initiate collaborations, and contribute to the growth of an emerging DNP research program.

Research Environment

The group has access to a comprehensive suite of magnetic resonance instrumentation and characterization facilities, including:

• A 400 MHz MAS-DNP spectrometer equipped with 1.3 HX and 3.2 mm HXY DNP probes
• A 600 MHz solid-state NMR spectrometer equipped with 1.3 HX, 2.5 mm HFXY, and 5.0 mm MAS and static HX probes
• X-band benchtop EPR spectrometer

In addition, the group has access to solution-state NMR, pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance, X-ray and microscopy facilities and high-performance computing resources at UVA.

The group fosters a collaborative and supportive research environment, with opportunities to lead interdisciplinary collaborations, mentor trainees, and collaborate with internationally recognized research groups and industries.

Qualifications

Required: PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field by the start date with a strong background in NMR spectroscopy, and demonstrated ability to conduct independent scientific research.

Preferred: Experience with DNP-enhanced NMR, hyperpolarization methods, advanced solid-state NMR or EPR spectroscopy. Record of peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations. Ability to work independently and effectively in a collaborative research environment. Interest in mentoring graduate and undergraduate researchers.

Application deadline: Review of applications will begin on October 3, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

The anticipated salary is $60,000 - $65,000, commensurate with experience.

This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for an additional year contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Amrit Venkatesh, Assistant Professor, at [e-mail].

For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at [e-mail]

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits. More information about Charlottesville as a place to live can be found on the UVA HR website.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.