Senior Scientist – Dr. Yuan Dai’s Lab

University of Missouri - Columbia

Columbia Township (MO)

On-site

USD 61,000 - 80,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical plan

Dental & vision

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Disability insurance

Parental leave

Caregiver leave

Educational fee discounts

Job summary

The University of Missouri Bond Life Sciences Center in Columbia is seeking a Senior Scientist – Catalysis and Reaction Engineering to lead fundamental and applied research on single-atom catalysts for electrochemical, photochemical, and thermochemical conversion processes.

You will develop synthesis strategies, explore structure–property–activity relationships, study mechanisms and kinetics, and apply advanced characterization.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related area; at least 4 years of experience.
PhD in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, or related field preferred.
Demonstrated expertise in heterogeneous catalysis, especially single-atom catalysis, is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Design, synthesize, and characterize catalysts; establish structure–property–activity relationships.
Investigate catalytic mechanisms and reaction kinetics; apply advanced materials characterization and electrochemical techniques.
Develop and optimize electrocatalytic and photocatalytic systems for CO2 conversion, sustainable synthesis, and environmental processes.
Integrate catalyst development with reactor and process engineering; mentor students and collaborate across disciplines.

Skills

Single-atom catalysis

Heterogeneous catalysis

Electrocatalysis

Photocatalysis

Reaction engineering

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

PhD in chemical engineering/chemistry/materials science

Tools

Materials characterization techniques

Electrochemical techniques

Job description

Hiring Department

Life Sciences Center

Job Description

Senior Scientist – Catalysis and Reaction Engineering

The Scientist will conduct fundamental and applied research in advanced catalysis and chemical engineering, with particular emphasis on the design, synthesis, and characterization of single-atom catalysts for electrochemical, photochemical, and thermochemical conversion processes. Responsibilities include developing catalyst synthesis strategies; establishing structure-property-activity relationships; investigating catalytic mechanisms and reaction kinetics; and applying advanced materials characterization and electrochemical techniques to understand catalyst performance. The Scientist will develop and optimize electrocatalytic and photocatalytic systems for applications such as CO2 conversion, sustainable chemical synthesis, and environmental processes, while integrating catalyst development with reactor and process engineering and integration with biological system. The position also involves data analysis, manuscript and proposal preparation, mentoring students, and collaboration across materials science, chemistry, and chemical engineering.

Shift

Monday – Friday, 8AM to 5PM

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in related/relevant area and at least 4 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

A Ph.D. in chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a related field and demonstrated expertise in heterogeneous catalysis, particularly single-atom catalysis, are preferred. Candidates with 2-5 years of research or professional experience beyond the Ph.D. are preferred. Demonstrated hands-on experience in single-atom catalyst synthesis and characterization, heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, electrochemical systems, and reaction engineering is highly desirable. Experience with advanced materials characterization, catalytic reactor design, CO2 conversion, process development, and multidisciplinary research is preferred. A strong publication record and demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot research projects are also highly valued.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $61,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Grade: GGS 011

University Title: Senior Scientist

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

CV/Resume, MU Application

Sponsorship Information

Employment visa sponsorship may be available for candidates currently in the United States in H-1B status or other work-authorized status.

Other Information

Want to learn more directly from people that work at the Bond Life Sciences Center? Check out our latest video highlighting the important work and experiences of our team: https://mizzou.us/WorkatBondLSC

About Us: The Bond Life Sciences Center at the University of Missouri is a dynamic hub where groundbreaking research meets real-world impact. Designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, our state-of-the-art facility brings together experts in diverse fields—engineers, cancer biologists, plant scientists, and IT specialists—all working towards a common goal: to save lives, reduce costs, and enhance everyday life for Missourians and people around the globe. Our Mission: We are committed to transforming scientific discoveries into actionable solutions. Our innovative research not only addresses pressing challenges in human and animal health, the environment, and agriculture, but it also translates into meaningful improvements in the lives of individuals everywhere. We also strive to share our findings with the public, ensuring that our discoveries resonate far beyond the lab in a language anyone can understand through our blog, Decoding Science, events for the public, social media and more.

Why Join Us? At the Bond Life Sciences Center, you'll be part of a vibrant community dedicated to making a difference. Our collaborative environment not only supports innovative research but also ensures that our discoveries lead to tangible benefits for society. Work in an award-winning facility designed for creativity and impact and contribute to a mission that truly changes lives. Join us in our quest to advance science and improve lives, one discovery at a time!

Community Information

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

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