Position Opening: Postdoctoral Researcher – Polymer and Molecular Materials

Location: University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky USA

Position Description: The Risko Research Group (risko.as.uky.edu) in the Department of Chemistry and Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) at the University of Kentucky (UK) is seeking an (or two) outstanding, highly motivated candidates for an immediate Postdoctoral Researcher opening in the field of computational materials science. Focusing on π-conjugated molecules and polymers employed in organic semiconductors, the project will establish essential connections among chemical composition, molecular architecture, nucleation and growth, and materials processing with the solid-state packings and (opto)electronic response of these materials. The work will be conducted in a highly synergistic environment, working in collaboration with computational, synthetic chemistry, and experimental scientists around the world.

Prospective candidates should have a PhD. and strong background in theoretical/computational chemistry, physics, material sciences, or engineering. An extensive background in atomistic and coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, with a preferred focus on polymer and molecular materials, is required. Primary responsibilities will involve developing and/or implementing molecular dynamics simulation protocols for molecular, polymer, and blend materials. Knowledge of Linux/Unix based computer systems and programming languages (python, C/C++, etc.) is desirable. Experience with quantum-chemical calculations (e.g., density functional theory, DFT) is a plus. The position will also consider development and application of machine learning / data-driven techniques. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required for this position, and a corresponding strong record of publication is desired. As part of the Postdoctoral training, the applicant will be required to help supervise and train graduate and undergraduate students.

The initial appointment will be for one year with possible extension. The position is open to start as soon as possible.

For information on the project and position, interested candidates are encouraged to contact Chad Risko by email at [email protected]

Please include a CV, brief description of research interests, and contact information for three professional references.

Institution: The University of Kentucky is a public, land-grant university dedicated to improving people's lives through excellence in education, research and creative work, service, and health care (https://www.uky.edu). In support of this mission, the UK Chemistry Department (http://chem.as.uky.edu) provides a friendly, yet rigorous instructional environment in the forefront areas of chemistry at the undergraduate through doctoral levels. The Department Faculty have extensive research programs in Analytical, Biological, Inorganic, Organic, Materials and Physical Chemistry.

The Risko Research Group laboratory is located at the UK Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER, http://www.caer.uky.edu).  A multidisciplinary research center, CAER investigates energy technologies to improve the environment and contributes to technically sound policies related to fossil and renewable energy.

For more information about Lexington, Kentucky – “Horse Capital of the World” – visit http://www.visitlex.com/ and http://www.kentuckytourism.com/