Scientist

Job Summary:

The Scientist III will help lead research projects involving reactor engineering for oxidations in the Stahl Research Group as part of the UW-Madison Department of Chemistry. This position will involve participating in efforts for biomass valorization, particularly on lignin depolymerization for the production of small aromatic molecules.

Stahl lab research focuses on catalysis, with an emphasis on selective oxidation of organic molecules relevant to the pharmaceutical and fine chemical industry, and the application of electrochemistry and electrocatalysis for energy conversion and chemical synthesis. Of particular relevance to this position, the Stahl lab also has research efforts in applied fields, including biomass and waste plastics deconstruction and valorization. Additional information about lab research activities is available on the lab website (https://stahl.chem.wisc.edu) and by reviewing recent research publications from the group.

Beyond lab work, this individual will: (1) aid in project management with other Stahl lab staff, (2) mentor undergraduate and graduate students, and post-doctoral researchers working on these projects, (3) assist in writing and editing manuscripts and grant proposals, and (4) assist in set up and maintenance of group equipment (e.g. reactors, centrifugal partition chromatography, and other specialized apparatus).

Opportunities to travel to conferences and collaborator sites to support the project and disseminate project outcomes (e.g. one or two times per year).

Responsibilities:

Identifies research problems, designs research methodologies, performs and supervises research, and prepares and presents results for presentation to professional organizations or for scholarly publications. May supervise staff.

• 20% Identifies research problems and develops highly complex research methodologies and procedures. Publishes and presents results to help advance research
• 30% Collects and analyzes highly complex research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures
• 10% Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials and, disseminates information to appropriate entities
• 10% Attends and assists with the facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information
• 10% Identifies, writes, or assists in developing grant opportunities, grant applications, and proposals to secure research funding
• 10% May supervise the day-to-day activities of a research unit and staff and resolve routine personnel issues
• 5% Serves as an institutional subject matter expert and liaison with key internal and external stakeholders providing expert level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area
• 5% Monitors program budget and approves unit expenditures

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Education:

Required:

Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry

Qualifications:

This individual will be involved in projects related to lignin and/or consumer plastics depolymerization. Responsibilities will include implementation of a high pressure flow reactor and continuous liquid-liquid extraction. This individual will also serve as an expert in pressure reactions, reaction scale-up, and designing complex reactor systems.

The ideal candidate will have research expertise in high pressure reactions and reaction engineering. Experience with Python will be a plus.

Programming of PLC or reactor automation will be a plus. Strong experience in the development and implementation of analytical methods will be advantageous (NMR, LC-MS, GPC, GC-MS, UV-vis, etc.).

Essential skills and attributes of the candidate include good organization skills and time management, attention to detail, strong technical writing, and good leadership and interpersonal skills, including open, honest, and respectful communication. Strong, clear presentation of experimental work and results will be required. The individual will help to lead a team of researchers with various disciplinary backgrounds, and an eagerness to learn and grow with others will be essential.

Work Type:

Full Time: 100%

It is anticipated this position requires work be performed in-person, onsite, at a designated campus work location.

Appointment Type, Duration:

Ongoing/Renewable

Salary:

Minimum $75,000 ANNUAL (12 months)

Depending on Qualifications

The expected salary range for this position is $75,000 - 85,000 but actual salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

How to Apply:

Please click on the "Apply Now" button to start the application process.

For questions on the position, contact Beatriz Lemire (beatriz.lemire@wisc.edu, 608-890-0298)

To apply for this position you will need to upload a cover letter, resume and contact information for at least three professional references, including your current supervisor. References will not be contacted without advance notice.

Your cover letter should address your qualifications as they pertain to the qualifications listed above.

Contact:

Beatriz Bolanos Lemire

beatriz.lemire@wisc.edu

608-890-0298

Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Official Title:

Scientist III(RE045)

Department(s):

A48-COL OF LETTERS & SCIENCE/CHEMISTRY/CHEMISTRY

Employment Class:

Academic Staff-Renewable

Job Number:

301465-AS

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, click here

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