Research Scientist in Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Virginia is seeking qualified candidates for a Research Scientist position in solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy.

Role overview: We are seeking a dynamic Research Scientist who will thrive in a collaborative research environment and facilitate applications of solid-state NMR and EPR in chemistry and biology. The Venkatesh research group is advancing solid-state NMR spectroscopy using dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) and fast magic angle spinning (MAS) indirect detection techniques to investigate catalytic materials in energy and health applications. We are currently setting up sophisticated solid-state NMR infrastructure which includes a 400 MHz MAS DNP with 1.3 mm HX and 3.2 mm HXY low temperature MAS probes, and 600 MHz solid-state NMR with 1.3 mm HX and 2.5 mm HFXY MAS probes and a 5 mm HX static probe. In addition, the 800 MHz spectrometer in the NMR core facility will have solid-state NMR capabilities and be equipped with a 1.3 mm HX MAS probe, with opportunities to develop these capabilities further. The scientist will assist in development and application of solid-state NMR for materials characterization, with an emphasis on application and maintenance of the Bruker 400 MHz MAS DNP spectrometer. In addition, UVA Chemistry houses Bruker X-band cw, X-band cw/pulsed, and Q-band pulsed EPR spectrometers. The scientist will work with users in applying EPR methods in chemistry and biology and support equipment maintenance.

Key Responsibilities:

* Engage in day-to-day functioning of the MAS DNP instrument

* Work with the Venkatesh group in developing applications of MAS DNP with opportunities to lead collaborative projects

* Provide user-support for EPR infrastructure with applications spanning catalysis, materials science and biology

* Support maintenance of the solid-state NMR and EPR infrastructure including cryogen fills, equipment maintenance and upkeep

* Provide training to users of solid-state NMR and EPR instrumentation

Required Qualifications: A PhD or Master's degree with significant experience in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field by the start date with a strong background in NMR or EPR spectroscopy. A PhD degree is preferred.

Preferred qualifications include:

* 3+ years of post-PhD experience with proven expertise in magnetic resonance as demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications

* Strong track record in advanced solid-state NMR or EPR spectroscopy including implementation of novel pulse sequences, processing techniques and ability to troubleshoot and address hardware issues

* Experience with MAS DNP

* Experience with cryogenics, low-temperature NMR/EPR hardware

* Experience applying multidimensional solid-state NMR methods and/or EPR for characterization in chemistry or biology

Application Procedure: Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us/en/job/R0074084

and attach (1) a cover letter indicating your experience relevant to this position and research interests, (2) a curriculum vitae with a full list of publications, and (3) contact information for three individuals who can provide professional reference letters. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded.

Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin in August 1, 2025, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

For questions regarding this position, please contact the chair of the search committee Dr. Amrit Venkatesh, Assistant Professor, at amrit.venkatesh@virginia.edu.

For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu.

For more information on the benefits available to Research Scientists at UVA, visit https://hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.