Position Summary

Dr. Lea Nienhaus of the Department of Chemistry at Rice University is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate with expertise in scanning probe microscopy.

The Nienhaus Research Group is interested in understanding the role of nanoscale structure on the ensemble materials properties. The group has pioneered solid-state perovskite-sensitized photon upconversion using a variety of tetracene and anthracene derivatives and studied the triplet generation process at the interface of perovskites and organic molecules. Subtle differences in the local structural environment of the organic molecules have clear impact on the underlying energy landscape and the group uses a variety of structural, spectroscopy and microscopy methods to disentangle the structure-function relationship. At Rice, the group will continue to push the envelope of coupled scanning probe microscopy and optical spectroscopy to understand the effects of nanoscale disorder in perovskites, organic semiconductors and hydrogen-bonded supramolecular networks. Research in the Nienhaus Group is highly interdisciplinary combining a wide variety of chemical and physical methods, materials development and synthesis and engineering approaches.

Workplace Requirements: This is an in-person position at Rice University in Houston, Texas. Additionally, this position is funded by a grant, soft and/or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of funding.

Minimum Requirements 

Doctoral degree in the field of chemistry, physics or closely related field Bachelor’s degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering

Substitutions

No substitutions for education allowed

Skills Required

Expertise in AFM and STM  Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as oral presentation skills Organization and time management skills Able to work in a collaborative environment and mentor students Able to work independently and professionally with minimal supervision and direction

Preferences

Expertise in optical scanning probe methods Interest in learning single molecule optical spectroscopy  Working knowledge of semiconductor photophysics Perovskite or quantum dot experience

Essential Functions

Supports the development of a combined confocal microscope/AFM tool Aids in developing an optical scanning tunneling microscope (STM) under air-free conditions in a glovebox Documents, analyzes, and maintains research data Assists with proposal development to obtain research funding Mentors, oversees, and/or trains junior research team members and students Publishes and presents research findings Supports project management and collaboration across institutions or disciplines Designs and implements research protocols; adapts new procedures, methods or instrumentation relative to research procedures Performs all other duties as assigned

Rice University HR | Benefits: https://knowledgecafe.rice.edu/benefits-overview 

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