Post-Doc Research Associate

Department:

Applied Physical Sciences - 318100

Posting Open Date:

03/27/2026

Open Until Filled:

Yes

Position Type:

Postdoctoral Scholar

Vacancy ID:

PDS004812

Full-time/Part-time:

Full-Time Temporary

Hours per week:

40

FTE:

1

Work Location:

Chapel Hill, NC

Position Location:

North Carolina, US

Hiring Range:

Dependent on Experience and/or Qualifications

Proposed Start Date:

09/01/2026

Estimated Duration of Appointment:

12 Months

Be a Tar Heel!:

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.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit:

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.

Position Summary:

This Postdoctoral Research Associate will be focused on developing polymer materials for applications in energy and environmental sustainability with the Guo Lab at UNC Chapel Hill. This position offers the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research in separation processes using clean energy sources.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical engineering or related field.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:

Prior publication record in related fields.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:

The candidates should have solid academic background in polymer synthesis and electrochemistry. The candidates should be self-motivated to explore new areas of studies including AI related and machine learning fields, have evidence of academic excellence, good communication skills, collaborative working attitude, and independent thinking capability.

Special Instructions:

For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here