Postdoctoral Researcher


Position Overview

The Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at the University of Kansas (KU) is seeking outstanding candidates for a Postdoctoral Researcher. The candidate will have a research focus on carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) and natural hydrogen systems.. The applicants must possess the research capability of working on pore-to-reservoir-scale understanding of thermal-hydro-chemical-mechanical interactions involved in CO2-brine-hydrocaron-rock systems as well as reactions involved in subsurface generation of natural hydrogen. This is a 12-month appointment with the possibility of renewal based on available funding.

The ideal candidate for this position will have:
  • A strong understanding of subsurface CO2-brine-hydrocaron-rock interactions both in the absence and in the presence of hydrocarbons
  • A strong understanding of subsurface hydrogen generation mechanisms
  • Experience in preparing research proposals
  • Strong background in working with CT/Micro-CT, NMR
  • Strong background in fluid flow through porous media, coreflooding and PVT processes in the lab
  • Strong high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) geochemistry background
  • Being able to communicate research outcomes effectively in writing and presentation format.

Job Description

60% Research - Design and execution of experiments
  1. Carrying out original research relative to the laboratory measurements listed under the position overview.
  2. Performing experiments, processing the data, analyzing the data and putting it in perspective to compare the findings from different parts of the project.
20% Reporting – Prepare grants, reports, presentations and papers.
  1. Working with the CPE faculty in the preparation of grants/contracts and proposals for federal, state and charitable organizations and industrial clients.
  2. Writing technical reports and scientific papers for peer reviewed journals.
  3. Preparing project update reports and presentations.
15% Collaboration - Assist other laboratory members with experiments
  1. Assist with experimental and technical supervision of one or more technicians, graduate students and/or undergraduate researchers and/or fellows.
  2. Collaborate with researchers from different disciplines both internally and externally and at different levels with the purpose of achieving the goals of projects.
5% Laboratory protocol - Routine lab management
  1. Ensuring systems are in place for efficient planning of lab supplies, records and document management as well as experimental protocols and data, and coordination of good lab practices and lab safety.

Required Qualifications

  1. Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Geology or related discipline.
  2. Previous experience in geochemistry, including but not limited to corefloods, CT/Micro-CT, NMR, and PVT, and being able to process and analyze the generated data.
  3. Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to write technical papers and prepare technical presentations, as evident on application material.
NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD in hand. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an interim basis.

Additional Candidate Instructions

A complete application consists of the online application, cover letter, letter of interest, resume, & 3 professional references. Only complete applications will be considered.

Candidates will be evaluated on (i) the candidate’s research experience, as evidenced by resume, letter of interest and cover letter, (ii) prior research publications and/or patent applications, (iii) references.

Application review continues until a qualified pool of applicants is identified.

Contact Information to Applicants

Reza Barati, rezab@ku.edu

Advertised Salary Range

$55,000

Work Schedule

40hrs/wk

Application Review Begins

Wednesday May 15, 2024

Anticipated Start Date

Monday June 10, 2024

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Posting Information

  • Posting ID:  27695BR
  • Department:  Chemical & Petroleum Engr
  • Primary Campus:  University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
  • Assignment:  On-Site
  • Reg/Temp:  Regular
  • Employee Class:  U-Unclassified Professional Staff
  • Review Begins:  15-May-2024

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