Postdoctoral Researcher – Catalyst Synthesis and Design @ National Renewable Energy Laboratory Colorado

Job / Research Summary:
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado, is the nation's primary laboratory for research, development, and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. The National Bioenergy Center at NREL has an opening for a full time Postdoctoral Researcher. The initial appointment is for one year, with possible renewal up to three years.

Job Duties:
Successful candidates will synthesize and screen inorganic complexes to be used as catalysts for conversion of biopolymers to monomers with applications to renewable fuels production. A theoretical program will support this work with catalyst screening in silico. The successful candidate will be able to conduct laboratory work independently and safely. The metrics for this position include catalyst design and synthesis, physical and chemical characterization of new catalysts, screening on model compounds and real substrates for catalyst activity, and authorship of peerreviewed publications.

Minimum Qualifications:
A recent Ph.D. (less than 3 years) in Chemistry or a closely related field. Experience with synthesis of inorganic complexes. Demonstrated understanding of the electronic structure of inorganic complexes and how this affects the kinetics and mechanisms of chemical reactions. The ability to communicate scientific results effectively, both written and oral, and the ability to work effectively in a large, multidisciplinary team of engineers, chemists, and biologists.


Preferred Qualifications:
Familiarity with catalyst characterization, plant cell wall biopolymers, and biomass conversion. Familiarity with electronic structure calculations.

To Apply:
Visit the Jobs site at www.nrel.gov. Apply for the requisition
number 1500BR.