The Department of Chemistry at the University of Virginia invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work in the laboratory of Prof. Michelle Personick.  The postdoc will work with Prof. Michelle Personick to study catalytic reactions at the surface of well-defined, dilute bimetallic nanostructures. This fundamental project will probe the catalytic performance and surface structure of these materials across reaction environments, including gas phase, liquid phase, and ultrahigh vacuum conditions.

The Personick Research Group is advancing the state of the art in the chemical synthesis of atomically precise nanomaterials and is using these precision materials to define catalytic structure-function relationships at an elevated level of mechanistic detail. Well-defined metal nanoparticles materials provide a platform for structure-activity studies of catalytic transformations at the intersection of macroscopic single crystal model surfaces and working catalysts, thereby filling the critical “pressure and materials gap” in catalyst design from fundamental principles. A particular emphasis will be placed on reactions relevant to (1) the energy transition to renewable fuels and (2) sustainable chemical production from renewable feedstocks.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: Candidates must have a PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field by the start date. Experience in catalysis, surface characterization, and/or materials synthesis is required. Preferred qualifications include experience with thermal catalysis at the gas-solid interface, ultrahigh vacuum surface science, or plasmonic photocatalysis. 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and attach a cover letter indicating your research interests in the Personick Lab, a detailed curriculum vitae, and the contact information for three individuals who can provide professional reference letters.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on July 7, 2023, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for additional one-year increments, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Michelle Personick, Associate Professor, at equ5hz@virginia.edu

For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits .

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Please visit the UVA COVID-19 Job Requirements and Guidelines  webpage prior to applying for current information regarding vaccination requirements?and?guidelines for employment at UVA.

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