Job Description

Position Title:

Postdoctoral Research Associate – Plasma Science and Sustainable Chemical Processes

Appointment Type:

Post Doc/Trainee

of Duties and Responsibilities:

We are seeking highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associates to conduct cutting-edge research in plasma science and engineering, with an emphasis on non-thermal plasma technologies for sustainable chemical processes. Successful candidates will contribute to developing innovative solutions for nitrogen fixation, renewable resource valorization, and waste-to-value conversion while working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and advance non-thermal plasma-based technologies for:
- Nitrogen fixation
- Valorization of renewable feedstocks
- Conversion of waste streams into value-added products
Design, build, and optimize plasma reactors and related experimental systems.
Conduct thermodynamic and kinetic analyses of plasma-driven chemical processes.
Perform chemical and materials characterization using appropriate analytical techniques.
Assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in managing laboratory operations, coordinating research activities and collaborations, and maintaining a safe and productive research environment.
Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate students.
Collaborate with internal and external research partners on multidisciplinary projects.
Prepare technical reports, conference presentations, and peer-reviewed publications.
Communicate research findings effectively through written reports, publications, presentations, and interactions with collaborators.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to transformative research at the intersection of plasma science, sustainable manufacturing, and circular economy technologies. Candidates with a passion for innovation, strong communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are encouraged to apply.

Required Minimum Qualifications:
PhD in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related disciplines

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- Plasma physics and plasma chemistry
- Reaction kinetics and thermodynamics in plasma environments
- Renewable and sustainable chemical processes
- Conversion of nitrogen, biomass, or waste streams into fuels, chemicals, or materials
Hands-on experience with:
- Plasma reactor design and operation
- Experimental diagnostics and system integration
- Chemical, materials, or spectroscopic analysis techniques

Record of scholarly productivity, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, patents, and/or other significant research contributions.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through technical reports, research proposals, invited presentations, student mentoring, and collaborative research activities

Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Iowa State University is where innovation thrives, and the impossible is made possible. This is where your passion for problem-solving and hands-on learning can make a real difference in our world. Whether you’re helping improve the environment, creating safer automobiles, or advancing medical technologies and athletic performance, the Department of Mechanical Engineering gives you the tools and talent to blaze your own trail to an amazing career.

Department Unit/Website:
Department of Mechanical Engineering – Iowa State University

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program
Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Proposed Start Date:

August 1, 2026

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

Post Docs

Original Posting Date:

July 1, 2026

Posting Close Date:

July 8, 2026

Job Requisition Number:

R19545

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

About Iowa State University

Industry

Unknown

Company Size

Unknown

Headquarters

Unknown

Year Founded

Unknown

Website

iastate.edu

Social Media