https://explorejobs.uml.edu/lowell/en-us/job/509615/postdoctoral-research-associate-plastics-engineering

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Plastics Engineering

Job no: 509615
Position type: Staff Full Time
Benefit Status: Benefited-Union
Campus: UMass Lowell
Department: Plastics Engineering
Salary: Salary range $50,000 - $52,000 annualized
Applications Open: Aug 04 2021
Applications Close: Open until filled

General Summary of Position:

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work closely with faculty, graduate students
and undergraduate students to carry out research on surface functionalization of textiles for achieving multifunctionality (Flame retardant, insect repellants, antimicrobials) through surface treatment/ chemical/microwave or photo-initiated functionalization under the direction of the Principal Investigator. This position is contingent upon funding.

Essential Job Duties:

Conduct studies in chemical and microwave assisted functionalization of Nyco (1:1, nylon : cotton), Nylon and cotton fabrics’ surface to achieve multifunctionality. Analyze and document results and use the results to plan experiments to improve properties.

Acquire or synthesize multifunctional materials and design effective crosslinking methods (thermal and/or photocuring) to attach functional moieties onto surface of the fabric

Review appropriate literature pertaining to current or proposed research. Prepare materials for publication and grant proposals as well as advise and train graduate students in this regard. Assist in supervising the graduate and undergraduate students working on the projects in conjunction with the PI.

Assist in maintaining instruments, such as thermal characterization equipment, spectrophotometers, spin coaters and help ordering required chemicals and lab supplies for the projects.

Make recommendations on suitability of manuscripts for publications and conference proceedings and on experimental approaches and characterizations.

Work involves activities that require using many different procedures depending on the particular applications, for example designing and executing various synthetic schemes and procedures for chemical functionalization of the fabrics for success of project.

Some supervision of graduate, undergraduate students and high school student interns.

Minimum Qualifications (Required):

Must have a Ph.D. in Chemistry/Material Science/ Textile engineering or related field