Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Arts & Sciences, UMSL

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

* Conduct research related to the organic synthesis, polymerization and characterization of multifunctional organic/polymer materials

* Engage in instrumentation training, operation, and maintenance

* Guide undergraduate and graduate students with technical skills

* Communicate the results of research to the PI via preparation of high quality technical reports, peer reviewed journal articles, and formal and informal presentations

* Participate in writing manuscripts and experimental result reports

* Collaborate with internal and external research partner to facilitate data exchange, instrumentation and communication in order to meet the needs of collaborative research projects

* Perform other duties as assigned.

Candidates will be evaluated on:

* Earned Ph.D. (or master degree with working experience) from an accredited college or university in polymer science and engineering, organic chemistry, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering or a closely related discipline.

* Demonstrated record of intellectual and academic accomplishments evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and professional presentations

* Experience with muli-step organic synthesis and polymerization techniques, with a specific emphasis on conjugated molecules/polymers

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

* Ability to be self-motivated and to work effectively, collaboratively, and collegially in a team environment with scientists and engineers representing diverse backgrounds, skills, and experience levels.

* Excellent written and oral communication skills

* Ability to conduct lab management with regards to safety, general instrument maintenance, and operation

* Be a positive and enthusiastic member of the lab.

* Competent & skilled in multiple step organic synthesis and controlled polymerization methods (RAFT/ATRP preferred or others)
Skilled in polymer characterization techniques (NMR, GPC, CD, UV-Vis-NIR, PL, TGA, DSC, POM, CV, etc.)

* Ability and willing to learn and independently perform new applications, instrumentation and procedures

* Attention to detail and accuracy in editing, record-keeping, etc.

* Capability to work effectively with a diverse group of community members, staff, and faculty of varying degrees of technical sophistication.

Other Desible Qualifications:

* Candidates should have strong experimental experience and a track record of successful research demonstrated through peer reviewed publications. Research experience at the interface of organic chemistry, polymer materials and biology is highly desired.

Applicants should submit a letter of interest and vita. Applicants must apply online at . Letters of Recommendation should be directed to: Dr. Jinjia Xu via email: .

(Reference letters will be requested for finalists at a later date).

Open until filled

The University of Missouri - St. Louis offers benefit-eligible employees a wide variety of benefits including: health, dental and vision coverage effective on the first day of employment, retirement, paid time off, tuition assistance for employees and their dependents and employee and dependent life insurance. For more information about our benefits, please visit:

Values Commitment

We value the uniqueness of every individual and strive to ensure each person's success. Contributions from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives promote intellectual pluralism and enable us to achieve the excellence that we seek in learning, research and engagement. This commitment makes our university a better place to work, learn and innovate. In your application materials, please discuss your experiences and expertise that support these values and enrich our missions of teaching, research and engagement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal Opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without unlawful discrimination on the basis of their race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable state or federal law. This policy applies to all employment decisions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. For more information, visit .