Post-Doctoral Scholar - Carbon Materials/CAER

Job Title
Post-Doctoral Scholar - Carbon Materials/CAER

Requisition Number
DU14404

Department Name
40550:Ctr For Applied Energy Res

Work Location
Lexington, KY

Salary Range
61,008/year

Type of Position
Temporary

Position Time Status
Full-Time

Required Education

PhD

Required Related Experience

n/a

Required License/Registration/Certification

n/a

Physical Requirements

lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 10 lbs;

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm (40 hours/week)

Job Summary

For over 40 years University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research (UK-CAER) has built an outstanding research program focused on the conversion of synthesis gas to fuel via Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (FTS) and related catalytic processes.

UK-CAER is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to conduct research on the development of multifunctional catalysts for the conversion of CO2 to sustainable fuel via FTS. This position will involve catalyst characterization, catalytic testing and data analysis with opportunities to work in a multidisciplinary team and contribute to publications and funded research projects.

Primary responsibilities:

a. Perform catalyst characterization using techniques such as BET surface area and pore size distribution, TPR/TPO/TPD, TGA, XRD, Raman, XPS, ICP-MS, SEM and TEM.

b. Conduct catalytic testing in high-pressure reactors and analyze product analysis by GC-FID, simulated distillation and GC x GC-MS.

c. Contribute data and findings for reports, manuscripts, oral/written presentations. Lead independent research tasks with project.

d. Troubleshoot laboratory instruments and assist in developing protocol documentation (i.e., standard operating procedures) to ensure safe and efficient laboratory operations.

Additionally, preferred applicants should have strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated record of teamwork, adaptability, innovation and initiative; and the ability to work well with all levels of personnel throughout CAER’s laboratories.

Duties and Responsibilities: A sampling of duties and responsibilities the successful candidate will be engaged in are as follows:

1. Equipment and Supplies
Assist in the preparation and maintenance of research environment and equipment, including cleaning and set-up duties. Constructs, assembles, installs, operates, calibrates, tests, modifies, and maintains process equipment and analytical apparatus. Responsible for procurement, storage, logging of supplies and equipment. Responsible for handling, identification, packaging and storage of raw materials and samples. Assist in the cleaning and maintenance of lab supplies and equipment.

2. Laboratory and Experimental Research
Responsible for collection of data, data storage, and contributes to analysis and interpretation of results, including taking samples, making identifications and taking measurements, and collecting, recording, and coding/ plotting data and analyzing data. Maintains adequate up to date log books and other records. Monitors quality and reproducibility of data, identifies problem areas, and institutes repeats/checks where necessary.

3. Results and Scholarly Output
Contributes to the preparation of scholarly reports, abstracts, manuscripts, articles, technical reviews, invention disclosures, and proposal submissions.

4. Instruction and Service
May be involved in the instruction and training of other students and employees, and providing technical services for the general public, government, industry and academic organizations.

5. Occupational Safety
Maintains clean and safe working area and follows and prosecutes safety procedures. Stays up to date on appropriate use of tools, instruments, computers and analytical apparatus.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Independent, disciplined researchers with a strong publication and presentation track record are preferred. Experience in independently conducting publication quality research expediently is a critical component.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No

Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply
03/29/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.