Research Fellow

Job Posting Title:

Research Fellow

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Hiring Department:

McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

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FLSA Status:

Exempt

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Earliest Start Date:

Immediately

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue Until Jan 14, 2027

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Location:

UT MAIN CAMPUS

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Job Details:

General Notes

At the McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin, we lead pioneering research in vital areas such as energy and the environment, human health, materials and manufacturing. We educate students who go on to transform industries, benefit society and improve quality of life. Our undergraduate and graduate chemical engineering programs are consistently ranked in the Top 10 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. And with more than 8,000 alumni around the planet innovating, inventing, and leading, we embody the UT vision: what starts here changes the world.  

 

UT Austin, recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Large Employers, provides outstanding employee benefits and total rewards packages that include:

• Competitive health benefits (employee premiums covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%)

• Voluntary Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance options

• Generous paid vacation, sick time, and holidays

• Teachers Retirement System of Texas, a defined benefit retirement plan, with 7.75% employer matching funds

• Additional Voluntary Retirement Programs: Tax Sheltered Annuity 403(b) and a Deferred Compensation program 457(b)

• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses

 

Purpose

The Research Fellow position leads a hands-on photovoltaic research effort based in Austin, TX, with an emphasis on solar energy materials and device development. The role combines scientific leadership with active laboratory research. Responsibilities include setting the research agenda, designing and conducting experiments, and driving innovation in photovoltaic technologies. In addition to leading research, the position works directly in the lab to synthesize materials, fabricate and test devices, and mentor doctoral students and junior researchers. The focus is on leading by example, modeling best practices at the bench while guiding the direction of the research team. Initial one-year appointment, renewable for up to two additional years.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee a research project focused on designing, building, and testing innovative photovoltaic devices using advanced materials and processes.

• Utilize the necessary lab infrastructure, including advanced testing equipment and other user facilities.

• Mentor and manage a team of doctoral students and junior scientists, providing direction, defining tasks, and fostering a collaborative environment.

• Interface with external collaborators, industry partners, and academic leadership

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

 

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in engineering, chemistry, or related field received more than 3 years ago

• Three (3) years of experience post Ph.D. conducting and publishing research in photovoltaics or advanced materials for energy

• Demonstrated track record of developing and testing novel photovoltaic devices, especially nanocrystal technologies

• Experience with project management and collaborating in academic/industrial research environments

• Proficiency in hands-on lab work, including ink formulation, device fabrication, and physical/electronic characterization

• History of leading multidisciplinary teams; strong mentoring skills with doctoral students and junior researchers

• Effective communication skills for presenting results and leadi