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We invite all interested candidates to apply for this opportunity. While we recognize that job seekers may hesitate if they don’t meet every requirement, we encourage dedicated individuals who meet all the basic and additional required qualifications of the role to submit an application. We value the opportunity to consider those who believe they have the necessary skills and ambition to succeed at NREL.
Job Description
A Postdoctoral Researcher position is available in NREL’s Catalytic Carbon Transformation and Scale-up Center involving the application of computational approaches toward catalyst and process development for the conversion of renewable (e.g., biomass) and waste (e.g., CO2, biogas) feedstocks to fuels, materials, and chemicals.
The researcher will apply state-of-the-art computational tools in support of multi-investigator, interdisciplinary projects focused on mechanistic studies, catalyst screening, and catalyst/process optimization including through the application of data science and/or machine learning approaches to accelerate research progress. The specific scope of projects will be determined based on candidate skills and interests. The initial appointment is for one year, with possible renewal up to three years.
The successful candidate will:
- Creatively develop and perform ab initio simulations using software packages (e.g., VASP, Gaussian) to elucidate reaction mechanisms and understand the structure and function of multi-component catalyst materials under reaction conditions
- Communicate with researchers and engineers operating state-of-the-art experimental systems to collaboratively design complementary experiments and physically realistic simulations, analyze data, and interpret results
- Frequently review the scientific literature to inform research, conceptualize plans, and interpret data
- Work with senior staff to plan and design research projects to advance decarbonization technologies, define relevant technical objectives, and interact with and provide regular project reports to government and/or industrial clients.
- Disseminate knowledge through publications in technical journals and presentations at conferences, symposia, and review meetings.
Basic Qualifications
Must be a recent PhD graduate within the last three years.
* Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.
Additional Required Qualifications
Doctoral degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science granted within the last three years.
Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated ability to apply engineering, chemistry, and/or data science knowledge to develop and execute computational simulations of chemical phenomena
- Experience in atomistic simulations, microkinetic and/or kinetic modeling
- Expertise, experience, or interest in machine-learning, data science, database development, and/or web application development could also be relevant
- Ability to work independently and in multi-disciplinary teams to deliver high-quality results
- Excellent technical writing, interpersonal, and communication skills
- Troubleshooting, problem-solving, and attention to detail
Job Application Submission Window
The anticipated closing window for application submission is up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.
