How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and
outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Job Summary
Applications are invited to fill a research faculty position in the University of Michigan Department of Chemical Engineering to join a computational engineering-based research group.
The successful applicant will lead research and development efforts in computational and theoretical modeling of self-assembly, focusing on complex materials, especially quasicrystals
and complex crystalline structures. This role involves quantifying structural changes during self-assembly simulations in colloidal particle systems and driving investigations for sponsored
research grants in this area. A deep understanding of theories and methodologies for quantifying disorder in aperiodic crystals is essential. The research investigator will lead code development for ongoing federal grants and maintain key software infrastructure while also conceiving and articulating innovative research methods, managing proposals for research funding and computational resource allocation, and publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings. Additionally, they will mentor graduate and undergraduate students in advanced research techniques and professional development. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in developing and applying theoretical and computational models and tools for particle assembly simulations, deep knowledge and expertise in quasicrystals, deep knowledge and expertise in density functional theories, quantum mechanics, statistical thermodynamics, and entropy-driven phase transitions, extensive experience in leveraging sophisticated concepts from geometry, symmetry, and linear algebra to describe order and disorder, and a proven track record in writing successful proposals and mentoring students.
Who We Are
Michigan Engineers are world-class educators, researchers, students and staff who strive to build a people-first future. As part of a top national public research institution, Michigan Engineering's mission is to provide scientific and technological leadership to the people of the world, develop intellectually curious and socially conscious minds, create collaborative solutions to societal problems, and promote an inclusive and innovative community of service for the common good.
Why Work at Michigan?
In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan
for a secure future. Benefits include:
- Generous time off
- A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate
vesting - Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
- Life insurance
- Long-term disability coverage
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
- Maternity and Parental Leave
Responsibilities*
- Conceiving and articulating research methods for computational and theoretical modeling of self-assembly, focusing on complex materials, especially quasicrystals and complex crystalline structures, to include fostering strong interdisciplinary collaborations with experimentalists and theoreticians. (45%)
- Lead code development and maintain key software infrastructure related to the research. (20%)
- Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings. (10%)
- Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. (15%)
- Assisting in planning and development of proposals for research funding and computational allocations. (10%)
Required Qualifications*
PhD in physics or theoretical chemistry with at least 5 years post-doctoral research experience in the computational areas described above, including extensive experience in leveraging sophisticated concepts from geometry, symmetry, and linear algebra to describe order and disorder in soft matter systems. A deep understanding of theories and methodologies for quantifying order and disorder in aperiodic crystals is essential. Training and experience in professional software development methods and tools for soft matter simulations and excellent programming skills in Python, C++ and Rust are required. Strong record of peer-reviewed publications in relevant areas. Significant sustained participation in academic and professional meetings.
Desired Qualifications*
Deep knowledge and expertise in quasicrystals, in statistical thermodynamics, quantum mechanics (including density functional theories), entropy-driven phase transitions, and development of order parameters for quantification of structural evolution during phase transitions.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.
Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.