Postdoctoral Research Associate – AI Catalysis

About the role

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will design and conduct experimental heterogeneous‑catalysis research within autonomous, closed‑loop laboratory workflows, integrating catalyst synthesis, high‑throughput testing, and AI‑driven experiment selection.

Key responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and test heterogeneous catalysts (supported metals, oxides, single‑atom systems, high‑entropy alloys) and operate reactors to measure activity, selectivity, and kinetics.
• Develop and run closed‑loop autonomous workflows that couple automated synthesis, high‑throughput screening, and in‑situ characterization with active‑learning and Bayesian‑optimization pipelines.
• Build agentic AI workflows and FAIR data infrastructure for instrument orchestration, automated data curation, and autonomous hypothesis generation.
• Analyze experimental and characterization data to extract structure–reactivity relationships and connect findings to mechanistic and kinetic interpretation.
• Disseminate results through peer‑reviewed publications, presentations, proposals, and mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers.

Required profile

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
• Knowledge of heterogeneous catalysis, reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and structure–reactivity relationships.
• Ability to design and operate catalytic reactors and to synthesize and characterize catalysts.
• Proficiency in Python programming and ability to apply machine‑learning methods to scientific data.
• Capacity to work independently and across disciplines.

Required skills

• Python programming
• Machine‑learning methods applied to scientific data

What we offer

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness and life insurance, retirement plans, and commuting/transportation support.
• Competitive salary range based on experience and qualifications.