Postdoctoral and Ph.D. Positions, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York, USA

Postdoctoral and Ph.D. Positions: The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at Clarkson University is actively seeking highly motivated candidates for one postdoctoral scholar position and two Ph.D. positions in the laboratory of Smart Polymeric and Supramolecular Systems (SmartPASS), directed by Dr. Xiaocun Lu. These positions are available immediately, offering a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in polymer mechanochemistry, mechanoresponsive biomaterials, and biomechanics.

Postdoctoral and Ph.D. Positions in Smart Polymeric and Supramolecular Systems

Designation:

• Postdoctoral Scholar (1 Position)
• Ph.D. Student (2 Positions)

Research Area:

• Polymer mechanochemistry
• Mechanoresponsive biomaterials
• Biomechanics
• Computational modeling (DFT, MD)

Location:
Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York, USA

Eligibility/Qualification:

Postdoctoral Applicants:

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, awarded within the last three years.
• Demonstrated expertise in organic and polymer synthesis, as well as materials characterization.
• Strong academic record and effective communication skills.
• Experience with multi-step organic synthesis, polymer mechanical properties, fluorescent sensors, and computational modeling (DFT or MD) is highly desirable.
• Candidates who can start before February 1, 2025, will receive priority consideration.

Ph.D. Applicants:

• B.S. or M.S. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Research experience in organic/polymer synthesis, soft materials characterization, or computational modeling is preferred.
• Strong academic record and proficiency in relevant research areas.
• Applicants who are available to start before January 15, 2025, will receive priority consideration.

Job Description:
Successful candidates will work within Dr. Xiaocun Lu’s interdisciplinary research group, focusing on:

• Designing and synthesizing mechanically sensitive molecules (mechanophores).
• Investigating mechanical transduction pathways across biomaterials at various scales.
• Developing sensors for biomechanics and cell mechanics.
• Conducting simulations using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Molecular Dynamics (MD).

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their applications via email to Dr. Xiaocun Lu at xlu@clarkson.edu.

Application Instructions:
For Postdoctoral Applicants:

1. Cover letter detailing your research interests, experience, and career goals.
2. A detailed CV, including a full publication list.
3. Three representative first-author publications.
4. Contact information for three references.

For Ph.D. Applicants:

1. CV/Resume.
2. Contact information for three references.
3. Academic transcripts.
4. A brief description of your research background and interests.
5. Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) for international applicants.

Last Date to Apply:
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled. We encourage early applications as the review process begins immediately.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative research in a dynamic and supportive academic environment. We look forward to receiving your application!