Researcher Scientist III, Chemistry & Biochemistry

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry is a university-wide unit with staff and faculty across both the College of Science and the College of Medicine. Our world-class research addresses critical topics in the chemical and biochemical sciences through the integration of multiple disciplines, including energy science and engineering, materials science and engineering, optical science, physics, computational science, biochemistry, chemical biology, biomedical engineering, drug discovery, structural biology, and molecular and cellular biology. Our vision is to be a world leader in the chemical and biochemical sciences through cutting-edge education, research, and community impact that enhance our understanding of the world and improve quality of life. Come join a collaborative, innovative, and dynamic team as we continue advancing discovery, education, and impact across the chemical and biochemical sciences.

The University of Arizona's Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry invites you to apply for the role of Research Scientist III. In this role, you will independently conduct and contribute to advanced research in heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and energy conversion technologies. You will apply specialized scientific knowledge and expertise in catalyst synthesis, materials characterization, and catalytic performance evaluation to investigate relationships between material structure, surface composition, chemical properties, and functional performance.

You will play a key role in designing and executing research experiments, utilizing advanced analytical techniques such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), particularly extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS), to characterize catalysts and functional materials under conventional and operando conditions. You will also independently analyze and interpret experimental results, identify research challenges, develop and refine methodologies, and contribute to the advancement of research objectives through scientific collaboration, technical reporting, and dissemination of research findings.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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Advanced Materials Characterization and Scientific Analysis:

• Independently design, conduct, and optimize materials characterization experiments to investigate the structural, chemical, electronic, and surface properties of heterogeneous catalysts, electrocatalysts, and energy-related materials.
• Apply advanced analytical techniques, including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS), to characterize material composition, oxidation states, local atomic structure, and surface properties.
• Conduct operando and in-situ characterization studies to evaluate changes in catalyst structure and chemical properties under relevant reaction conditions.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data to establish relationships between material properties, catalytic mechanisms, and functional performance.
• Develop and refine characterization approaches to address specific research questions and advance project objectives.

Catalytic and Electrochemical Performance
Evaluation:

• Independently design and conduct experiments to evaluate catalytic activity, selectivity, stability, and durability in heterogeneous catalytic reactions, electrocatalytic processes, and energy conversion applications.
• Develop and implement experimental methodologies to investigate reaction mechanisms, catalytic behavior, and performance under varying operating conditions.
• Evaluate electrochemical properties and performance, including battery charge-discharge cycling and related energy storage processes, as applicable to research objectives.
• Interpret experimental findings, identify performance trends, and correlate catalytic and electrochemical results with material composition and structural characteristics.
• Troubleshoot experimental limitations and recommend modifications to improve research methods, reproducibility, and data quality.

Catalyst Synthesis and Materials Preparation:

• Independently synthesize, prepare, and optimize heterogeneous catalysts, electrocatalysts, and functional materials for research applications.
• Develop and refine synthesis procedures for metal nanoparticles, single-atom catalysts, metal oxides, and other advanced catalytic and energy-related materials.
• Evaluate synthesis parameters and preparation methods to control material composition, morphology, surface properties, and structural characteristics.
• Assess the reproducibility and quality of prepared materials and modify synthesis approaches based on characterization results and research requirements.
• Prepare and process materials for subsequent characterization and catalytic or electrochemical performance testing.

Independent Research Planning, Data
Interpretation, and Project Execution:

• Plan and execute assigned research projects in alignment with established scientific objectives, project timelines, and research priorities.
• Apply specialized scientific knowledge to identify research questions, develop experimental approaches, and independently address complex technical and methodological challenges.
• Analyze, interpret, and validate research data using appropriate scientific and analytical methods to draw conclusions and inform subsequent research activities.
• Evaluate research outcomes, identify opportunities for further investigation, and recommend modifications to experimental designs and methodologies.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive research records and prepare technical reports, presentations, and supporting documentation summarizing research methods, findings, and conclusions.

Laboratory Operations, Research Collaboration, and Dissemination:

• Maintain, operate, and troubleshoot specialized laboratory instrumentation and research equipment to support ongoing research activities.
• Establish and follow appropriate laboratory safety procedures, chemical handling requirements, equipment protocols, and applicable university research standards.
• Collaborate with faculty, graduate students, research personnel, and external research partners to coordinate experimental activities, exchange technical expertise, and support collaborative research objectives.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific publications, research presentations, conference materials, and technical reports to communicate research findings.
• Provide technical guidance and share specialized research methodologies with students and other research collaborators, as appropriate.

Knowledge,
Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Knowledge of heterogeneous catalysis, electrocatalysis, and energy conversion
  technologies.
• Knowledge of
  advanced materials characterization techniques, including XPS, TEM, XAS, and
  EXAFS.
• Ability to synthesize and prepare catalysts.
• Ability to perform advanced characterization including XPS, TEM, XAS, and
  EXAFS.
• Ability to design, execute, and optimize independent scientific research
  experiments.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and validate complex experimental data.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical challenges and develop innovative research
  solutions.
• Ability to operate and maintain specialized laboratory instrumentation and
  analytical equipment.
• Ability to prepare scientific publications, technical reports, and research
  presentations.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary research teams and
  external partners.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science and engineering, or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• PhD in chemistry, chemical engineering, or materials science and engineering.