Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

We are seeking to fill a postdoctoral associate position for a highly motivated and driven candidate in the Koenig Lab as a part of a collaborative project on designing a novel particle loaded fabric mask for filtering particles from air. This is an excellent opportunity to learn and apply particle engineering skills and apply research towards a real world application. Also, the position will include analysis and characterization relevant to battery technology and materials. Further, the selected candidate will have the opportunity to grow a strong industrial and academic network by attending and presenting at conferences, and by providing regular updates to the project sponsors.

Primary Responsibilities: The chosen candidate will work on a collaborative project that includes other academic researchers and a small business. The project will include synthesis and characterization of inorganic particulate materials, applying coating processes to the deposit the particles onto fabrics, assessing the efficacy of the coatings on different fabric types, and scaling the process to pilot scale production. There will also be coordination with other aspects such as third party testing and validation. As the research group also engages in battery technology research, the candidate would also contribute to particle characterization relevant to battery technology. The candidate will also have some capabilities in experimental design and modeling to achieve project milestones. Additionally, the candidate will provide regular project progress updates to the sponsor and coordinate on any necessary project reports. Techniques that will be applied include glove box research, electrochemical characterization, filtration efficacy, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, and custom transport measurements.

Qualifications:

Minimum Education Requirements:

• A Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
  

Preferred Experience and Skills:

• Technical background in particle engineering, particle characterization, inorganic synthesis, electrochemical characterization, battery technology, materials characterization (SEM, XRD), scaling of unit operations.
  
• Experience with scripting/programing, and/or developing and implementing transport models.
  
• Experience in working with or starting small business in technical field relevant to the posting.
  
• Demonstrated scientific ability through publications and presentation in scientific conferences.
  
• Ability to effectively and clearly communicate researching findings, results, and analysis.
  
• Ability to work in a team environment.
  
• Motivated to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity.
  

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and search for R0086400. Attach a cover letter indicating research interests, a detailed curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the CV box. Make sure to upload all the documents to complete your application.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on August 27, 2026, and the posting will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

Estimated Salary range is $57,000 - $60,000, commensurate with experience.

This is a one-year appointment that may be renewed for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Professor Gary Koenig at gmk3k@virginia.edu.

For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu .

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .