Visiting Assistant Research Scientist, Engineering - ISGS/PRI

Visiting Assistant Research Scientist, Engineering Illinois State Geological Survey

Prairie Research Institute

University of Illinois at Urbana-ChampaignThe Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) is a premier state geological survey serving the needs of the public, government, and industry with earth science information and research relevant to natural resources, environmental quality, economic vitality, and public safety. ISGS is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. Learn more at go.illinois.edu/PRIjobs.

ISGS is seeking to hire a Visiting Assistant Research Scientist, Engineering to participate in and conduct original research on the current and new projects on the development of advanced coal-based materials for energy/environmental applications and perform other relevant activities. Conceive, recommend, and initiate new research in these areas.Duties and ResponsibilitiesResearch

• Design, assemble, operate, and maintain experimental equipment and facilities.
• Participate in activities related to the synthesis of graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, highly porous functionalized activated carbon, graphitic carbons, and other carbon-based materials from coal or other precursors.
• Perform extensive characterization of materials by surface area and pore size distribution, particle size analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, and other analytical methods.
• Supervise, mentor, and lead undergraduate students, graduate students, and hourly employees to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at both individual and organizational levels.This includes task assignments, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback and travel approval.
  
  

Research - Data Analysis/Interpretation

• Document, interpret, and analyze experimental data.
• Prepare standard operating procedures and other laboratory safety documents, monitor laboratory safety procedures, and act as the group laboratory safety lead.
  
  

Research - Publications

• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and journal manuscripts. Conduct literature survey.
• Participate in and contribute to the preparation of research proposals for external funding. Perform experiments for obtaining preliminary data.
  
  

Outreach and Other

• Contribute in the areas of education, outreach, and/or other service to the Survey, PRI, the University of Illinois, and the state of Illinois.
• Keep abreast of developments in this discipline.
• Perform other duties as needed in order to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and University.
  
  

Position Requirements and QualificationsMinimum QualificationsRequired: Ph.D. in chemical engineering, materials science or engineering, chemistry, or related discipline. Research experience in the preparation of carbon nanomaterials and sorbents for energy/environmental applications. Experience of material characterization and chemical analysis. Experience in the operation of high-temperature graphite furnace. Experience in design, assembly, and operation of laboratory/bench-scale setups and scientific equipment. Valid Driver’s License.Preferred: At least 3 years of post-Ph.D. research experience in synthesis and characterization of coal-based carbon nanomaterials and sorbents. At least 3 years of post-Ph.D. experience in material characterization by various spectroscopic and analytical methods. Research experience in advanced materials and processes for separation/purification or conversion applications. Demonstrated track record of publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesGood oral and written communication skills to present and publish scientific research results and interact effectively with others. Good organizational skills. Ability to train and supervise the work of project assistants, including students. Effective communication and interpersonal, collaborative, organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment characterized by multiple and changing priorities, stringent deadlines, and minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and conflict resolution skills. Affinity for cooperative or interdisciplinary research with scientists at the Survey, professionals at other Surveys or other academic units, and governmental and other academic institutions. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases. Environmental DemandsThe work of this position takes place in office and chemical laboratory settings. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds. Appointment InformationThis is a full-time visiting academic professional appointment. Position may become a regular position at a later date depending on funding and a programmatic need. The budgeted amount for this position is $80,000 to $90,000. The salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the full range for a position.BenefitsThe University of Illinois offers a wide variety of benefits https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/benefits, including paid leave https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave and holidays https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave/holidays. Application Procedures & Deadline InformationApplications must be received by 6:00 p.m. (CST) Friday, February 28, 2025. To apply select the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the page. Applications not submitted through this website will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional (not personal) references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For further information about this specific position, please contact Jill Billerman at jrandell@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, including technical issues, please contact 217-333-2137.The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.Requisition ID: 1029259

Job Category: Research

Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu