Description

Position Overview

The Wonderful Institute for Sustainable Engineering at the University of Kansas is seeking a well-qualified post-doctoral research associate to support an NSF funded research project focused on the development of new approaches to cost-effectively repurpose hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants into new products and develop next-generation alkylation catalysts utilizing haloalkyl sulfonic acids that have been patented by the University of Kansas. The project has a strong chemistry and chemical engineering aspect and is suitable for candidates with a background and interest in fluorine chemistry. A successful candidate will be able to work in a hands-on, collaborative, energetic environment.

The initial appointment would be for one year with the possibility of renewal, subject to department needs and funding availability.

Job Description

60% Research

• Design, construct, and operate an experimental apparatus for synthesizing haloalkylsulfonic acids;
• Use of analytical techniques including but not limited: Gas-Chromatography (GC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS) for materials characterization;
• Develop new synthesis chemistry to utilize fluorochemicals such as difluoromethane, pentafluoroethane, 1,1,1-trifluoroethane, and 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane as feedstocks for producing non-regulated products

20% Reporting

• Communicate scientific results effectively, both written and orally.
• Author peer-reviewed publications.
• Assist in writing grant proposals to achieve funding goals for future research.

15% Collaboration

• Assist other laboratory members with experiments
• Assist the principal investigator to provide experimental and technical supervision of one or more graduate students, undergraduate researchers, technicians, and/or post-doctoral researchers and/or fellows.

5% Laboratory Protocol

• Maintaining a safe laboratory and mentoring other lab members in safe practices
• Develop standard operating procedures and safety protocols for laboratory
• Ensuring systems are in place for efficient planning of lab supplies, records, and document management

Position Requirements

1. This position is required to work on-site.

Required Qualifications

1. PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
2. Experience with fluorination and/or halogenation chemistry.

NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD conferred at the time of hire. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an interim basis not to exceed 6-months. Upon verification of degree the appointment will be extended to its full duration.

This position requires a formal degree in the cited discipline area(s) to ensure that candidates have advanced knowledge, analytical skills and professional competencies necessary to perform the duties of the position. The level of degree is commonly recognized as the standard qualification for similar roles in the public and private sector, ensuring that the university remains competitive with industry aligned practices, enhances collaboration with external partners, and supports the delivery of services and programs that meet professional and market-driven expectations.

Additional Candidate Instruction

In addition to the online application, a complete application consists of:

• resume/CV
• cover letter describing how you meet the required qualifications
• list of three professional references

Only complete applications will be considered. Application review begins Monday, November 3, 2025. In order to ensure consideration, please apply prior to that date.

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and procedures and is the Title IX Coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY. Reports can be submitted by contacting the Title IX Coordinator as provided herein or using the Title IX online report form and complaints can be submitted with the Title IX Coordinator or using the Title IX online complaint form.