Senior Research Specialist - Dr. Singh ChE

Position Summary: This position involves diagnostic studies of fuel cells and electrolyzers using a variety of electrochemical techniques in both aqueous and membrane-electrode assembly environments. This position will direct the synthesis and characterization of materials and electrodes for fuel cells and electrolyzers. To achieve this, the role involves utilizing high-throughput methods guided by AI and machine learning algorithms, alongside advanced synchrotron X-ray techniques (specifically X-ray scattering and X-ray absorption spectroscopy).

Duties & Responsibilities: Catalyst Synthesis: Utilize your expertise in materials synthesis to develop novel catalysts guided by AI, agentic AI, and machine learning algorithms. Catalyst Performance Evaluation: Apply aqueous electrochemical combinatorial techniques to evaluate the performance of synthesized catalysts, identifying promising candidates for further development. Device-Level Assessment: Integrate promising catalysts into low-temperature fuel cells and electrolyzers, utilizing single-cell testing platforms to evaluate device-level performance and durability. Hardware & Tool Development: Develop electrochemical cells and MEA testing hardware for in situ and operando characterization during low- and high-current-density operations. Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: Ph. D. in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Nanoscience, Nanotechnology, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline from a leading international research university.

Experience: Approximately ten (10) years of extensive research experience in nanomaterials and electrochemical engineering.

Preferred Qualifications: Electrochemical Analysis: Extensive knowledge of aqueous electrochemical techniques, specifically electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis and Faradaic efficiency (FE) calculations for complex electrocatalytic reactions. Material Characterization: Deep knowledge of inorganic and nanomaterial synthesis, defect engineering, and vacancy characterization using XPS. Proficiency in crystal structure analysis using Rietveld refinement and structure construction software (e.g., Materials Studio, Crystalmaker, Mercury, VESTA).Device Engineering: Comprehensive knowledge of fabricating, testing, and determining the performance and durability of low-temperature fuel cells and electrolyzers at low- and high-current density. Experience in the development of electrochemistry cells and membrane electrode assembly (MEA) testing hardware for the in situ and operando characterization of fuel cell and water electrolysis catalysts and electrodes. Academic Excellence: An outstanding publication record in internationally recognized journals with a specific focus on electrocatalysis. Teamwork & Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to work effectively within collaborative, multi-institutional, and interdisciplinary research environments. Hands-on experience with X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), X-ray scattering (SAXS & WAXS), and X-ray nano-CT characterization of materials is highly beneficial. The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify. The university provides accommodations to applicants and employees. Request an Accommodation Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.