A Research Associate typically has more experience than a Research Assistant. Responsibilities can include the planning and design of research projects, conducting experiments, analyzing data, contributing to research publications or grant proposals, and collaborating with other researchers. Works in a variety of fields within science or the social sciences, in programs based at a university or research institution, or works on government or industry sponsored research projects. Conducts field or library research or recruits participants for a study; may also assist with legal research. These roles are often held by people with advanced degrees in their field of study with several years of experience in research or academia.
Postdoctoral Research Associate The University of Akron - 4.1 Akron, OH Job Details Full-time $44,100 a year 1 day ago Qualifications Safe work practices Student supervision Instrumentation troubleshooting Laboratory safety Engineering development testing Safety regulations Experience working with graduate students Laboratory instruction Laboratory equipment calibration Working with students Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy Spectroscopic analysis Mass spectrometers (MS) Technical troubleshooting support Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy Research supervision Full Job Description 40-50% Plan and conduct experiments; design, operate, and troubleshoot laboratory reactors, plasma systems, and experimental apparatus; document results; and follow laboratory safety requirements. 20-30% Operate, calibrate, and troubleshoot FTIR, UV-Vis, XRF, mass spectrometry, and related analytical instrumentation; interpret data. 10-20% Develop research concepts and preliminary results into proposals for federal, state, and industrial sponsors; prepare publications, and contribute to new externally funded and follow-on projects. 10-20% Support technology development through prototype fabrication and testing, intellectual property documentation. 0-10% Provide technical guidance to graduate and undergraduate
Additional Position Information:
Education Ph.D. or Doctor of Science in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or a closely related scientific or engineering discipline. Licenses/Certifications/Requirements None required. Experience Requires 2 years of demonstrated experience in experimental research, construction and troubleshooting of laboratory systems, analytical instrumentation. Experience with FTIR, DRIFT, ATR, UV-Vis, XRF, mass spectrometry is required. Prior work, lab and/or research experience will coincide with specific project/grant. Working knowledge of laboratory practices and safety regulations required. Ability to instruct and /or supervise students required. Leadership Provide technical guidance and training to graduate and undergraduate students in experimental methods, instrumentation, laboratory safety, and data analysis.
Application Deadline:
August 16, 2026
Compensation :
The annual compensation for this position is $44,100
Application Instructions :
To be considered for this position, please attach your resume and cover letter. FLSA Status (exempt/nonexempt): United States of America (Exempt) Union Affiliation (if applicable): For assistance with your application or attachments, please contact the Human Resources representative listed:
Shawna Harris Email:
________________________________________________________________________ Background Check Statement The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus. As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search. Non-Discrimination Statement The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. State of Residence Statement It is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.
