Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Description/Duties:

The candidate will play a crucial role in researching microemulsions' fundamental chemistry and physical properties as they are used as an electrolyte in an energy storage or energy production device, such as redox flow batteries, or supercapacitors. The candidate must characterize the microemulsions before using them in an energy storage device using standard literature methodologies such as NMR, viscosity, conductivity, and x-ray and neutron scattering. The researcher will become a vital part of a research team to develop new microemulsion compositions and surfactant-based materials. The researcher will work in Dr. Zawodzinski's and Dr. Imel's research teams and will maintain accurate laboratory notes, provide research technical reports, prepare publications/reports, and assist in preparing oral presentations that summarize the accomplishments of the research program. Participation in general laboratory maintenance and safety programs and associated team research issues will be required. The research project is fundamental in nature but directed at developing solutions to practical problems in energy. A successful candidate is expected to publish at least two papers in peer-reviewed journals/year, each with an impact factor greater than four. Research studies will be conducted on the UTK campus and the ORNL campus. An externally funded project funds the project and research position, and employment is conditionally dependent on continued external funding.