Postdoctoral Associate - Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering

Postdoctoral Research Opportunity

A postdoctoral research opportunity is available in the research group of Dr. Stavroula Alina Kampouri at Rice University. The successful candidate will lead cutting-edge efforts in the design, synthesis, and characterization of multifunctional metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for solar-driven chemical transformations. These materials will be engineered to integrate semiconductive, redox-active, and CO₂-binding functionalities to advance applications in sustainable energy conversion and carbon management.

The role involves designing light-responsive organic linkers, constructing MOF-based catalysts, and probing charge-transfer dynamics using a suite of spectroscopic and electrochemical tools. This is a collaborative and interdisciplinary project, offering opportunities to engage with researchers across chemistry, materials science, and chemical engineering.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong foundation in synthetic chemistry and photophysical characterization, with demonstrated experience working at the intersection of materials development and catalytic function. A background in MOF synthesis, redox-active ligands, or photocatalytic/electrocatalytic systems is highly desirable. The candidate should have a proven ability to work independently, communicate research findings effectively, and collaborate across scientific disciplines.

This is an on-site position, requiring all responsibilities to be carried out in person at Rice University Campus. Per Rice policy 440, work arrangements may be subject to change.

Hiring Range: $48,000 – 50,000

This position is a benefits eligible, full-time position funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds.

This is a one-year, term limited position with the option to of renewal dependent upon satisfactory performance and availability of continued funding.

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. or other doctoral degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science
• No experience required

Skills:

• Proficiency in inorganic/solid-state synthesis, including development of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) or coordination polymers
• Experience in organic synthesis is recommended, particularly in the design and synthesis of redox-active or conjugated ligands
• Familiarity with spectroscopic and other characterization techniques such as UV–vis, photoluminescence, IR, NMR spectroscopies, PXRD, BET, XPS, and electron microscopy
• Experience with light-driven catalytic systems and/or electrochemical analysis (e.g., GC-FID, cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical workstation)
• Strong experimental design skills, including optimization of material synthesis
• Experience conducting catalytic experiments, including batch or flow photoreactor studies; background in reactor engineering or reaction optimization is recommended
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of peer-reviewed publications
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment
• Strong time management, documentation, and organizational skills

Preferences:

• Background in inorganic, physical, or materials chemistry
• Prior experience with redox-active or conjugated ligand design
• Familiarity with the synthesis and characterization of MOFs
• Experience with photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, or light-driven chemical conversions
• Experience with reactor engineering, particularly batch or flow photoreactor design and optimization

Essential Functions:

• Lead the design and synthesis of redox-active organic linkers and their integration into crystalline MOF lattices
• Characterize photophysical and electronic properties of materials using spectroscopic (UV-Vis, PL), electrochemical (CV, conductivity measurements), and structural (PXRD, BET, SEM, XPS) techniques
• Conduct photocatalytic experiments for CO2 reduction and related light-driven conversions
• Contribute to the development of multifunctional MOFs that combine gas adsorption, light absorption, and catalytic activity
• Analyze structure–property–performance relationships to guide material optimization
• Prepare manuscripts, presentations, and contribute to grant proposal development
• Collaborate with graduate students and external partners across disciplines, including chemistry, materials science, and chemical engineering
• Perform all other duties as assigned

Additional information:

This position will remain open through November 30, 2025, or until a suitable candidate is identified. Review of applications will begin immediately.