What are the responsibilities and job description for the Postdoctoral Researcher - Environmental Control Materials Lab position at Syracuse University?
Job Description
Lao Research Lab (Environmental Control Materials Lab) in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Syracuse Center of Excellence in Environmental and Energy Systems (SyracuseCoE) at Syracuse University is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the team.
The lab focuses on understanding the interaction among the human body, buildings and environment, and improving their performance by developing advanced materials and smart systems. Current research aims to design smart materials for thermal, moisture and air quality management for the human body and the built environment to maintain comfortable levels while reducing energy consumption. Biomimetic approaches are emphasized for the materials design and engineering based on polymers, fibers, textiles, soft materials, smart materials and advanced manufacturing. The Postdoctoral Researcher will work on the research topics include but are not limited to: 1) Design of smart materials (e.g., stimuli responsive materials, bio-inspired design, 3D printing), 2) Personal thermal and moisture management (e.g., smart textiles, surface wettability, thermal regulation, directional liquid transport), 3) Smart building and environment control (e.g., thermal regulation, ventilation control, air quality improvement). The Postdoctoral Researcher also has the opportunity to propose and define specific focus of his/her work in a broad materials area.
For broadening the training, the Postdoctoral Researcher will also have the opportunity and will be encouraged to exchange and collaborate with other faculty members and industrial partners associated with SyracuseCoE covering research ranging from material scales, to building, neighborhood and urban scales, and to regional, continental and global climate scales. This is a full-time position beginning in Spring or Fall 2025. The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of renewal, depending on the availability of funding and performance.
Qualifications
Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, architecture or equivalent is required. Demonstrated potential for excellence in research, evidenced by a solid publication record or significant research accomplishments.
Job Specific Qualifications
To apply, candidates should submit their application materials, including a Cover letter, CV, 1–2 page research statement, and contact information for three references. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.
The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University’s 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.syracuse.edu.
About The Syracuse Area
Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.
EEO Statement
Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.
Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans
Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military-connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University’s contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class-leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post-9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.
Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community
Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
Lao Research Lab (Environmental Control Materials Lab) in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Syracuse Center of Excellence in Environmental and Energy Systems (SyracuseCoE) at Syracuse University is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the team.
The lab focuses on understanding the interaction among the human body, buildings and environment, and improving their performance by developing advanced materials and smart systems. Current research aims to design smart materials for thermal, moisture and air quality management for the human body and the built environment to maintain comfortable levels while reducing energy consumption. Biomimetic approaches are emphasized for the materials design and engineering based on polymers, fibers, textiles, soft materials, smart materials and advanced manufacturing. The Postdoctoral Researcher will work on the research topics include but are not limited to: 1) Design of smart materials (e.g., stimuli responsive materials, bio-inspired design, 3D printing), 2) Personal thermal and moisture management (e.g., smart textiles, surface wettability, thermal regulation, directional liquid transport), 3) Smart building and environment control (e.g., thermal regulation, ventilation control, air quality improvement). The Postdoctoral Researcher also has the opportunity to propose and define specific focus of his/her work in a broad materials area.
For broadening the training, the Postdoctoral Researcher will also have the opportunity and will be encouraged to exchange and collaborate with other faculty members and industrial partners associated with SyracuseCoE covering research ranging from material scales, to building, neighborhood and urban scales, and to regional, continental and global climate scales. This is a full-time position beginning in Spring or Fall 2025. The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of renewal, depending on the availability of funding and performance.
Qualifications
Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, architecture or equivalent is required. Demonstrated potential for excellence in research, evidenced by a solid publication record or significant research accomplishments.
Job Specific Qualifications
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Experience in one or more of the following areas is a plus: polymers chemistry and physics, fibers and textile materials, smart materials and soft robotics, advanced manufacturing, thermal science, building solutions, air quality control and energy sustainability.
- Excited to explore and develop new research ideas and directions, e.g., combining materials with building, environmental and energy systems.
- Willing to collaborate effectively across scientific disciplines and with colleagues in cross-functional teams.
- Design, execute experiments, and analyze data.
- Write manuscripts and fellowship proposals; Assist in grant writing.
- Mentor and collaborate with graduate and undergraduate students.
- Presenting research at conferences and workshops.
- Participate in other duties related to the lab mission.
To apply, candidates should submit their application materials, including a Cover letter, CV, 1–2 page research statement, and contact information for three references. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.
The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University’s 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.syracuse.edu.
About The Syracuse Area
Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.
EEO Statement
Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.
Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans
Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military-connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University’s contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class-leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post-9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.
Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community
Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
