Postdoctoral Research Associate – Plasma Science and Engineering
Job Summary
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
We are seeking highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associates to conduct cutting-edge research in plasma science and engineering with an emphasis on non-thermal plasma technologies for sustainable chemical processes. Successful candidates will contribute to developing innovative solutions for nitrogen fixation renewable resource valorization and waste-to-value conversion while working in a collaborative interdisciplinary research environment.
- Develop and advance non-thermal plasma-based technologies for:
- Nitrogen fixation
- Valorization of renewable feedstocks
- Conversion of waste streams into value-added products
- Design build and optimize plasma reactors and related experimental systems.
- Conduct thermodynamic and kinetic analyses of plasma-driven chemical processes.
- Perform chemical and materials characterization using appropriate analytical techniques.
- Assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in managing laboratory operations coordinating research activities and collaborations and maintaining a safe and productive research environment.
- Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate students.
- Collaborate with internal and external research partners on multidisciplinary projects.
- Prepare technical reports conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
- Communicate research findings effectively through written reports publications presentations and interactions with collaborators.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to transformative research at the intersection of plasma science sustainable manufacturing and circular economy technologies. Candidates with a passion for innovation strong communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are encouraged to apply.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
PhD in Chemical Engineering Electrical Engineering Mechanical Engineering or related disciplines.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- Plasma physics and plasma chemistry
- Reaction kinetics and thermodynamics in plasma environments
- Renewable and sustainable chemical processes
- Conversion of nitrogen biomass or waste streams into fuels chemicals or materials
- Hands-on experience with:
- Plasma reactor design and operation
- Experimental diagnostics and system integration
- Chemical materials or spectroscopic analysis techniques
- Record of scholarly productivity evidenced by peer-reviewed publications conference presentations patents and/or other significant research contributions.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills demonstrated through technical reports research proposals invited presentations student mentoring and collaborative research activities
Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Iowa State University is where innovation thrives and the impossible is made possible. This is where your passion for problem-solving and hands-on learning can make a real difference in our world. Whether youre helping improve the environment creating safer automobiles or advancing medical technologies and athletic performance the Department of Mechanical Engineering gives you the tools and talent to blaze your own trail to an amazing career.
Department Unit/Website:
Department of Mechanical Engineering Iowa State University
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position please click on Apply and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits including medical and dental as well as:
- Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
- Generous vacation holiday and sick time and leave plans
- Onsite childcare (Ames Iowa)
- Life insurance and long-term disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Various voluntary benefits and discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellbeing program
- Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when where and how you do your work. For more information please speak with the Hiring Manager.
If you have questions regarding this application process please email or call or Toll Free: 1-.
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race color age ethnicity religion national origin pregnancy sexual orientation genetic information sex marital status disability or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity 2680 Beardshear Hall 515 Morrill Road Ames Iowa 50011 Tel. email .
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
Attending Iowa State University of Science and Technology (ISU) can be a whirlwind experience for some. ISU is a public land-grant institution offering higher education courses and programs with an emphasis on science, technology, and related areas. It's also home to the Cyclones athl ... View more