Postdoctoral Research Associate - Arts & Sciences

Position Summary

The Powderly lab is seeking to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead a project on the growth and characterization of magnetic 2D cluster-organic frameworks, starting August 2024.

In this project, we will investigate how organic linker length, geometry, and electronics impact the magnetic coupling between spin-1/2 noble-metal nanoclusters, towards 2D materials-by-design for quantum spin liquid behavior, 2D ferromagnetism, and networks of spin quantum bits. This work will take advantage of state-of-the-art instrumentation at the Institute of Materials Science and Engineering (AC-STEM, PPMS, PXRD), Chemical and Environmental Analysis Facility (AFM, FTIR), and Department of Chemistry (NMR). In this position, you will contribute to developing and understanding new materials of interest in quantum information science.

In addition to excellent research skills, we are seeking an applicant who prioritizes providing proactive mentorship to students, honing communication skills, and working in an interdisciplinary environment. Lab members will have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, and the Center for Quantum Leaps.

We prioritize career and professional development for postdoctoral researchers. In addition to one-on-one mentorship, further resources and support are available through the Center for Career Engagement, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, and Center for Teaching and Learning.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop synthesis and assembly procedures for the formation of cluster-organic frameworks from spin-1/2 noble-metal clusters and conjugated thiolate linkers.
• Characterize structure and physical properties of materials and determine structure-property relationships related to observed magnetic properties.
• Contribute to the mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students in the lab, modeling ethical and safe research practices.
• Publish peer-reviewed journal articles and present work at conferences.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency with air-free inorganic synthesis and characterization.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong record of peer-reviewed journal publications.
• Enthusiasm for mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.
• Excellent research skills.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment.

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Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

Applicants should send a CV, a brief statement of research interests, and contact information for three references to [email protected] .

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ .

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.