Summary
The Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering at University of Delaware is inviting applications for two Postdoctoral Researcher positions in the research group of Thomas Epps III. These positions are part of a collaborative project with the U.S. Army, offering opportunities in both fundamental research and applied technology development in sustainable biomass valorization and advanced biobased polymer systems.
Postdoctoral Positions in Lignin Deconstruction & Precision Biobased Polymers at University of Delaware
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Research Areas | Lignin Deconstruction, Biomass Valorization, Precision Biobased Polymers |
| Institution | University of Delaware |
| Department | Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering |
| Collaboration | U.S. Army |
| Location | Newark |
| Duration | 1–3 Years |
| Preferred Candidates | U.S. Citizens |
| Application Mode | Email Application |
| Required Documents | CV + 2–3 References |
| Application Email | sadodd@udel.edu |
Designation
- Postdoctoral Researcher – Lignin Deconstruction Towards Biobased Small Molecules
- Postdoctoral Researcher – Precision Biobased Polymers
Research Area
Position 1: Lignin Deconstruction
- Reductive catalytic fractionation/deconstruction
- Biomass waste depolymerization
- Lignin valorization
- Catalyst development
- Techno-economic analysis and life-cycle assessment
Position 2: Precision Biobased Polymers
- Structure–property–processing relationships
- Lignin-based thermoplastic polymers
- Polymer synthesis and characterization
- Precision macromolecular engineering
Location
Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering,
University of Delaware,
Newark
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants should possess:
- A strong background in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or related disciplines.
- Expertise in either:
- Macromolecular deconstruction and biomass processing, or
- Polymer synthesis and characterization of controlled macromolecules.
- Strong collaborative and communication skills.
- Ability to work with U.S. Army collaborators is highly preferred; therefore, U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Description
The selected postdoctoral researchers will:
- Conduct advanced research on lignin-rich feedstock deconstruction or lignin-based polymer systems.
- Develop and optimize catalytic processes for biomass valorization.
- Investigate processing–structure–property relationships in thermoplastic polymer systems.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary researchers, engineers, and Army scientists.
- Contribute to sustainable biobased materials and technology development.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send the following documents via email:
- Updated CV
- Names of 2–3 potential references
Email:
To: sadodd@udel.edu
Subject Line Options:
- “Lignin Deconstruction – Postdoctoral Position”
- “Precision Biobased Polymers – Postdoctoral Position”
Please note:
- Candidates should apply for only one position.
- Applications submitted outside the instructed format may not be considered.
Last Date for Apply
Until the positions are filled. Early application is recommended.
