Post Doctoral Research Scientist

JOB TITLE:                       

Post Doctoral Research Scientist

JOB PURPOSE:

The Design of Inorganic Materials Lab, in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Wyoming, led by Prof. de Sousa Oliveira is accepting applications for a postdoctoral researcher or research assistant with experience in modeling polaron transport. Candidates with a PhD and no previous experience will be hired as postdoctoral researchers. Candidates with additional experience will be hired at the research assistant rank. Research assistants will be expected to conduct research at a higher level of independence and contribute significantly to the development of the project.

Band conduction is the typical mode of conduction for inorganic materials. However, in polar and ionic solids, local lattice distortions can lead to (localized) polaron conduction. We aim to investigate if polaron hopping is a suitable conduction mechanism for thermoelectricity in MOFs. This work is supported by the Department of Energy through an Early Career Research Program Award.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• Publish in peer reviewed journals.
• Present results at nationally and internationally recognized conferences. 
• Create, share, and archive reproducible and robust code. 
• Participate in group activities and outreach.
• Collaborate with other researchers.
• Contribute to writing proposals. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  

• A PhD in theoretical/computational Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or related disciplines. 

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:  

• A strong background in density functional theory, especially in electronic structure calculations.
• Experience modeling polaron transport.
• Experience modeling electron-phonon coupling.
• Good programming skills (knowledge of Python preferred).
• Basic knowledge of machine learning.
• Proficient oral and written English communication skills. 
• Highly driven and self-motivated individuals.

REQUIRED MATERIALS:  

This position will remain open until filled. Complete applications received by 05/20/2025 will receive full consideration. Please check the PI’s website at www.de-sousa-oliveira.xyz. If the position is no longer advertised, it means it has been filled.

For further information, please contact Prof. de Sousa Oliveira at [email protected]. 

Applications must include: 

• Cover letter, including a brief summary of past research accomplishments explaining why applicants are qualified for and are interested in this position, and a description of future research interests. 
• CV, including scientific achievements, list of publications, coding skills, and contacts for at least 4 references.
• Academic diplomas in English.
• PhD transcript

Letters of recommendation may be confidentially requested for candidates under consideration. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for a virtual interview.