Postdoctoral Associate

The Center for Materials and Manufacturing Sciences at Troy University invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Analytical Chemistry. The successful candidate will join an NSF-funded project focused on developing sensitive, reliable methods for detecting hazardous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in recycled plastics using headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS).

The postdoctoral researcher will:

• Design and optimize HS-SPME-GC-MS methods, including selection of SPME fibers, extraction conditions, and chromatographic parameters.

• Analyze recycled plastic samples to characterize VOC contamination and assess impacts on safety and recycling quality.

• Mentor and supervise undergraduate students, fostering hands-on research experiences in a primarily undergraduate institution.

• Contribute to publication and presentation of findings, and engagement with industry partners.

This position offers an excellent opportunity to advance expertise in analytical and materials chemistry while contributing to sustainability and circular economy initiatives.

The appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance and continued funding availability.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related field.

• Demonstrated expertise in analytical instrumentation (preferably GC-MS, SPME, or related separation/trace analysis techniques).

• Strong skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing.

• Ability to work independently while effectively mentoring and collaborating with students and colleagues.

Preferred Qualifications