Postdoctoral Researcher – Membrane Design for Rare Earth Recovery

About the role

The Engler and Owoyele research groups, in partnership with Argonne National Laboratory, are seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to develop high‑selectivity membranes for rare‑earth element recovery and to apply AI/ML techniques to enhance an electrodialysis process. The two‑year appointment will be based at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois, and is funded by an LSU internal seed grant.

Key responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize membranes that selectively separate rare‑earth elements from complex mixtures (≈50%).
• Collaborate with experts in polymer and ligand design, membrane fabrication, synchrotron‑based characterization, AI/ML modeling, and TEA/LCA analysis (≈40%).
• Prepare project reports, write scientific manuscripts, and present findings at conferences (≈10%).

Required profile

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
• Hands‑on experience with organic synthesis and a strong interest in developing AI/ML models for scientific applications.
• Demonstrated initiative, creativity, strong communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and within interdisciplinary teams.

Required skills

• Organic synthesis
• Membrane fabrication
• Synchrotron‑based characterization
• AI/ML modeling
• TEA/LCA analysis
• Electrodialysis process knowledge

What we offer

• Fixed‑term two‑year contract with access to world‑class research facilities.
• Collaboration with leading scientists at Argonne National Laboratory and LSU.
• Opportunities to publish high‑impact research and present at international conferences.