Postdoctoral Research Associate – Lopez Group, Northeastern University, Boston, MA in USA

Summary

The Lopez Group at Northeastern University in Boston, MA, is hiring a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on a collaborative project focused on sustainable polymer synthesis from carbon dioxide. The postholder will develop and implement computational and AI-driven techniques, such as high-throughput quantum chemistry and machine learning, to assist in designing metal-free cyclopropenimine catalysts, reaction conditions, and substrates for polyurethane and polycarbonate synthesis. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in chemistry or a related discipline, possess strong programming and machine-learning capabilities, and have a solid background in organic or physical organic chemistry. The position includes a comprehensive university benefits package.

Key Facts

Department	Lopez Group
Position Type	Postdoctoral Research Associate
Discipline	Chemistry
Research Area	Machine learning, computational chemistry, organic chemistry, and sustainable polymer synthesis
Degree Required	Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field
Experience	Experience in machine learning and organic chemistry. Experience in computational chemistry, cheminformatics, catalyst design, or polymer chemistry is highly desirable.
Employer Address	Boston, MA (Main Campus)

About the Project

The research focuses on the sustainable synthesis of polyurethanes and polycarbonates from CO₂. It utilizes computational methods and artificial intelligence, including high-throughput quantum chemistry and machine learning, to guide the design of metal-free cyclopropenimine catalysts, substrates, and optimal reaction conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and apply computational and AI-based methods, including high-throughput quantum chemistry and machine learning
• Guide the design of metal-free cyclopropenimine catalysts, substrates, and reaction conditions for the synthesis of polyurethanes and polycarbonates

Required Skills

• Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field
• Strong programming skills
• Machine-learning skills
• Solid foundation in organic or physical organic chemistry

Who Should Apply

Applicants holding a Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field with strong skills in programming, machine learning, and organic or physical organic chemistry. Candidates with expertise in computational chemistry, cheminformatics, catalyst design, or polymer chemistry are strongly encouraged to apply.

Benefits

• Medical coverage
• Vision coverage
• Dental coverage
• Paid time off
• Tuition assistance
• Wellness & life benefits
• Retirement benefits
• Commuting & transportation benefits

About the Employer

Northeastern University is located in Boston, MA, and considers candidate experience, education, and skills when making job offers while providing a comprehensive benefits package.

Frequently Asked Questions

What degree is required for this role?

Candidates are required to have a Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field.

Where is the position located?

The post is based at the Lopez Group at Northeastern University, Boston, MA (Main Campus).

What are the main focus areas of the research?

The project focuses on sustainable polymer synthesis from CO₂ using high-throughput quantum chemistry and machine learning to design catalysts, substrates, and reaction conditions.

What benefits are provided with this position?

Benefits for eligible employees include medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement, and commuting & transportation benefits.