Rsch Pro 5-Research Lab

This job posting is for a temporary 80% part-time, 32 hours/week, 12-month position.

*About the Job:
The candidate will design and conduct synthesis, fabrication and characterization experiments for developing nano and microscale photonic materials and devices, requiring an advanced degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. The role involves designing and executing experiments in a cleanroom environment, optimizing synthesis and fabrication processes (e.g., lithography, thin-film deposition, etching), and performing materials characterization using techniques such as SEM, AFM, and optical spectroscopy. The successful candidate will conduct research, analyze complex datasets, contribute to grant proposals and publications, and mentor junior team members. Familiarity with electromagnetic modeling tools and prior experience with lithographic techniques (e-beam lithography, nano-imprint lithography) and synthesis of magneto-photonic materials and devices are necessary for a strong candidate. The position offers the opportunity to collaborate on high-impact projects in an interdisciplinary setting, advancing both fundamental research and practical applications.

*Duties/responsibilities:
In this role, the candidate will have the responsibility to:
-Design and execute laboratory and cleanroom experiments (40%): plan, conduct, and document experiments in a laboratory and cleanroom environment; apply advanced knowledge of chemical principles to synthesize, process, and test novel materials. Take initiative in refining experimental approaches.
-Develop and optimize synthesis and fabrication processes (20%): formulate and adapt protocols and fabrication processes, such as lithography, deposition, and etching; Introduce innovative methods from current literature to improve materials performance.
-Perform advanced materials characterization (15%): coordinate and operate all analytical instruments (including spectroscopy and microscopy); interpret complex data sets and provide clear and actionable interpretations of data.
-Model and analyze data, communicate results (25%): Independently analyze and interpret data; compile findings into reports and manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals; actively contribute to a collaborative research effort.

*Required qualifications include:
-Advanced degree in Chemistry, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, or a related field with one or more years of research training.
-Hands-on experience in nanosynthesis and fabrication techniques (including e-beam lithography, nano-imprint lithography, thin film deposition, reactive ion and wet etching).
-Proficiency in testing and characterization methods (SEM, AFM, optical spectroscopy).
-Demonstrated ability to conduct research, including experimental design and data interpretation.
-Familiarity with cleanroom operation and safety protocols.
-Experience integrating bio-photonic and magneto-photonic components into nanoscale materials and devices.
-Strong communication skills and a proven record of publications or conference presentations.
-Experience with silicon-nitride-based nanosynthesis and fabrication.
-Demonstrated leadership or mentorship experience in a multidisciplinary research environment.

*Preferred qualifications include:
- Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field
- Postdoctoral academic experience in nanotechnology or biophotonics

The Department of Mechanical Engineering has an internationally recognized faculty, and is part of the College of Science and Engineering, the highly interdisciplinary college of engineering, physical sciences, and mathematics.

Pay Range: $64,000-$68,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 75%-100% Appointment (If job description above does not specify appointment or expected weekly hours, assume a 100% appointment.)

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).