Research Scientist

Rice University; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Rice University in Houston is seeking a Research Scientist to join Prof. Sibani Biswal's research group. The role entails conducting independent experimental studies, managing projects and budgets, and communicating results through presentations.

You will mentor students, contribute to grant proposals, and maintain a safe, efficient laboratory, collaborating on soft matter and energy engineering projects using MATLAB, Python, and COMSOL.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field is required.
• Experience with colloidal experiments and advanced apparatus is expected.
• Strong data analysis, numerical simulation, and visualization skills using MATLAB, Python, COMSOL.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research in colloidal and interfacial phenomena with applications in soft matter and energy engineering.
• Design and implement experimental and computational projects bridging fundamental science with practical applications.
• Perform data analysis, simulations, and modeling to explain experimental results using MATLAB, Python, COMSOL and image analysis tools.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers and train in laboratory techniques.
• Contribute to grant proposals and manage research projects and budgets.

Skills

Independent research

Mentor students

Data analysis

Project management

Education

PhD in Chemical/Biomolecular Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

COMSOL

Image analysis

Job description

Position Summary

The department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering is searching for a Research Scientist in the Research Group of Prof. Sibani Biswal. The research scientist will conduct independent experimental studies and manage research projects and related budgets. This position communicates the results of scientific research through presentations, mentors undergraduate/graduate student researchers, and maintains a safe and efficient work environment.

Benefits

Full‑time, benefits eligible position. Exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime.

Minimum Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Special Requirements

• Advanced colloidal experimental apparatus, including optical tweezers operations and principles, design of Helmholtz coils for time‑varying magnetic control, and optical microscopy
• Advanced computational and modeling in colloidal assemblies using MATLAB, Python, COMSOL, and image analysis tools
• Conducting data analysis, numerical simulation, and visualization of transport‑reaction processes

Essential Functions

• Conduct independent research in colloidal and interfacial phenomena with applications in soft matter and energy engineering
• Design and implement experimental and computational projects that bridge fundamental science with practical applications in microfluidics, electrochemical systems, and responsive materials
• Design and execute independent experimental research studies and computational simulations to investigate colloidal assembly, soft matter dynamics, and interfacial transport phenomena using knowledge of chemical engineering or biomolecular engineering
• Perform data analysis, simulations, and modeling of the physical behavior to explain experimental results using MATLAB, Python, COMSOL and image analysis tools
• Develop and implement new experimental platforms, integrating custom‑built instrumentation with field‑driven control systems
• Manage research projects, prepare technical reports, and contribute to the preparation of competitive grant proposals
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers, providing training in advanced laboratory and computational techniques
• Maintain a safe, efficient, and well‑organized laboratory, including oversight of equipment and supplies
• Communicate research outcomes through peer‑reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences
• Seek opportunities to expand research funding and collaborations.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Rice University is committed to ensuring Equal Employment Opportunity and welcoming the fullness of diversity into our candidate pools. Rice considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Rice also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities.