Post Doctoral Scholar

FSEC is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to participate in a research program on low-carbon methanol production from stranded methane. 

This program focuses on process development in support of optimizations and designs of portable, modular flare gas to methanol technologies in partnership with M2X Energy Inc., which involves, but is not limited to:

• High pressure gas phase catalysis, benchtop reactor experimentation and data interpretation
• Gas, liquid, and solid analytical characterizations (chromatography, spectrophotometry, titration, electron microscopy, X-ray, thermogravimetric, etc.) to develop structure-function relationships that support process optimization, design, and field operation of M2X technology
• Development of key variables as inputs and understanding of the implications to life-cycle assessment (LCA) and techno economic analysis (TEA) for commercial implementation of M2X technology.

Successful applicants will have obtained a Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering or Chemistry prior to onboarding and have hands-on experience in thermal catalysis research, reactor engineering, and /or analytical chemistry.  Additionally, applicants should have general knowledge of the hydrogen economy, chemical process economics and show interest in sustainable chemistries.  Successful applicants will work closely with both FSEC staff and industrial counterparts on real-world solutions for a decarbonized future. 

Minimum Requirements

Ph.D. degree in chemical engineering or chemistry and basic proficiency in one or more of the following:  catalyst testing, reactor engineering, and analytical chemistry.

Preferred Requirements

• Experience with analytical instrumentation and techniques such as GC, SEM, TEM, XRD, TGA.
• Good knowledge in syngas associated thermal catalysis.
• Hands-on experience in building/modifying pressurized chemical reactors with liquid or gas flow. Familiar with fittings and gas cylinder handling.
• Experience in building online product analysis.
• Strong communication skills and awareness of other technical staff, external partners, equipment/instrument manufacturers, etc.

Applicants must apply for the position electronically through  https://www.ucf.edu/jobs/and submit the following: 1) cover letter , 2) current curriculum vita, 3) copies of all academic transcripts, and 4) summary of past research projects (please specify your involvement and contribution in each project).  When prompted during the online application process, please provide names, phone numbers and email addresses of three professional references. Only complete application materials will be considered. 

Department

Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC)

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday; 8:00 AM-5:00 PM

Type of Appointment

Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Expected Salary

Negotiable

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Central Florida is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer including Disabled/Vets.  Click on UCF's Equal Opportunity Statement to view the President’s Statement.

The UCF affirmative action plans for qualified individuals with disabilities and protected Veterans are available for inspection in the Office of Institutional Equity, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., upon request.

As a Florida public university, UCF makes all application materials and selection procedures available to the public upon request. 

The University of Central Florida is proud to be a smoke-free campus and an E-Verify employer.