Postdoc Research Associate - Engineering

Position Title:

Postdoc Research Associate - Engineering

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The postdoctoral research associate will perform density functional theory, and atomic-scale simulations to investigate the decomposition of polymers using zeolite catalysts. The successful candidate will employ a combination of density functional theory (DFT), machine learning force fields (ML-FF), and data-driven machine learning models to investigate reaction mechanisms, catalyst activity, kinetics, and structure–function relationships.  The successful candidate will: Performing DFT simulations to study key reaction steps in polymer cracking and dehydrogenation. Developing and applying machine learning force fields for large-scale reactive simulations. Integrating ML methods to accelerate exploration of catalyst–polymer interactions and optimize catalytic pathways. Collaborating with experimental and computational partners to validate predictions and refine models.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
   

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated expertise in atomic-scale simulations (e.g., MD, DFT, ML-FF)
• Demonstrated proficiency in computational programming (Python, C++, or related programs)
• Demonstrated experience with writing research publications

Proposed Start Date:

September 1, 2025

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:

August 31, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

Time Type:

Full time

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:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Postdocs 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)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing Program

Original Posting Date:

July 31, 2025

Posting Close Date:

August 7, 2025

Job Requisition Number:

R17447