Post-Doc Research Associate

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.

Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.

UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

Launched in 2013, the Department of Applied Physical Sciences ( APS) is the first new science department in the College of Arts and Sciences in nearly 40 years. APS lives in the collaborative space between science and engineering, combining knowledge and discovery with an engineering mindset, team-based science, and entrepreneurship to address real-world problems. Organized around 'Ideas to Impacts,' the department unites with campus themes in health, water and energy to help Carolina continue to be a leader in science innovation and the application of knowledge. APS has united numerous scientific entities on campus to further its mission of finding interdisciplinary solutions to real-world problems. Its newest endeavor, BeAM (Be A Maker), is a university-wide initiative that incorporates Making into research, education, and entrepreneurship. BeAM is comprised of several spaces, including a makerspace in Hanes Art Center, Carmichael Residence Hall, and a 3,400 square foot Makerspace in Murray Hall, all of which serve the entire UNC community.

This Postdoctoral Research Associate will develop battery materials and cells capable of operating at elevated temperatures under high-rate conditions. The successful candidate will design and evaluate electrode materials and electrolytes, build and test coin and pouch cells, and characterize electrochemical performance and thermal behavior across extended temperature windows. Responsibilities include calorimetric and thermal safety measurements ( ARC, isothermal microcalorimetry), post-mortem and in situ materials characterization, data analysis, preparation of manuscripts and reports to federal sponsors, and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. The position is initially for one year, renewable based on performance and funding availability.

Ph.D. in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or a closely related field, completed by the start date. Demonstrated research experience in electrochemical energy storage, evidenced by first-author peer-reviewed publications.

Same as minimum

Hands-on experience with battery cell fabrication (electrode slurry casting, coin and/or pouch cell assembly) and electrochemical testing (cycling, EIS, rate capability, GITT). Working knowledge of electrode and electrolyte chemistry, including degradation mechanisms at elevated temperature. Experience with standard materials characterization ( XRD, SEM/ EDS, XPS, TGA/ DSC). Ability to work independently in a glovebox and dry room environment while following laboratory safety protocols. Strong written and oral communication skills and a record of scientific writing. DFT/MD modeling expertise. Familiar with Python and Linux

For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.

Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.