Skip to Main Content

Post-Doc Research Associate

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here

Posting Information

Posting Details

Department Applied Physical Sciences - 318100
Posting Open Date 03/27/2026
Application Deadline
Open Until Filled Yes
Position Type Postdoctoral Scholar
Position Title Post-Doc Research Associate
Vacancy ID PDS004812
Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary
Hours per week 40
FTE 1
Work Location Chapel Hill, NC
Position Location North Carolina, US
Hiring Range Dependent on Experience and/or Qualifications
Proposed Start Date 09/01/2026
Estimated Duration of Appointment 12 Months
Position Information

Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.
Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
Launched in 2013, the Department of Applied Physical Sciences (APS) is the first new science department in the College of Arts and Sciences in nearly 40 years. APS lives in the collaborative space between science and engineering, combining knowledge and discovery with an engineering mindset, team-based science, and entrepreneurship to address real-world problems. Organized around ‘Ideas to Impacts,’ the department unites with campus themes in health, water and energy to help Carolina continue to be a leader in science innovation and the application of knowledge. APS has united numerous scientific entities on campus to further its mission of finding interdisciplinary solutions to real-world problems. Its newest endeavor, BeAM (Be A Maker), is a university-wide initiative that incorporates Making into research, education, and entrepreneurship. BeAM is comprised of several spaces, including a makerspace in Hanes Art Center, Carmichael Residence Hall, and a 3,400 square foot Makerspace in Murray Hall, all of which serve the entire UNC community.
Position Summary
This Postdoctoral Research Associate will be focused on developing polymer materials for applications in energy and environmental sustainability with the Guo Lab at UNC Chapel Hill. This position offers the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research in separation processes using clean energy sources.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical engineering or related field.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Prior publication record in related fields.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
The candidates should have solid academic background in polymer synthesis and electrochemistry. The candidates should be self-motivated to explore new areas of studies including AI related and machine learning fields, have evidence of academic excellence, good communication skills, collaborative working attitude, and independent thinking capability.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Special Instructions
For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here
Quick Link
Posting Contact Information

Department Contact Name and Title Nancy Guo; Assistant Professor
Department Contact Telephone or Email [email protected]
Postdoctoral Affairs Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University’s Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to [email protected].

Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Optional and Required Documents

Required Documents
  1. Curriculum Vitae / Resume
  2. Cover Letter
  3. List of References
Optional Documents

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).