Job Description

Position Title:Postdoctoral Research Associate - Organic Chemistry & Catalysis

Appointment Type:Post Doc/Trainee

Job Description:Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The postdoctoral research associate will work in the laboratory of Prof. Yan Zhao in the Department of Chemistry at Iowa State University. The successful candidate will design and synthesize functional polymeric nanoparticles that function as artificial enzymes. Responsibilities include conducting experimental research in organic chemistry and catalysis, analyzing data, preparing manuscripts, and contributing to ongoing projects within the group. This is a one-year appointment with the possibility of renewal upon mutual agreement. Candidates may review recent related publications from the group for context,

• J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2022, 144, 17110-17119

• J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2024, 146, 4346

• ACS Nano 2023, 17, 4764-4774

• Nat. Commun. 2024, 15, 3731

Required Minimum Qualifications:

PhD in Chemistry

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong skills in organic synthesis

• Prior research experience in catalysis and/or supramolecular chemistry

Department/Program & College Description: The Department of Chemistry at Iowa State University is proud to offer dynamic research opportunities in analytical and bioanalytical chemistry, inorganic and materials chemistry, organic and bioorganic chemistry, physical and theoretical chemistry, and chemical education. Located in Gilman Hall and Hach Hall on the ISU campus, our department is home to dedicated faculty, staff, graduate students, and cutting-edge research laboratories. We are committed to fostering a supportive and engaging environment that prioritizes both the academic success and personal well-being of our outstanding chemistry majors.

Department Unit/Website:

About the Department of Chemistry | Department of Chemistry (

Proposed Start Date:June 1, 2026

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:May 31, 2027

Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work Period

Time Type:Full time

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae2) Letter of Application/Cover LetterIf you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.Why Choose ISU?Iowa State Postdocs enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:- Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans- Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans- Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)- Flexible Spending Accounts- Various voluntary benefits and discounts- Employee Assistance Program- Wellbeing Program

Original Posting Date: March 17, 2026

Posting Close Date:March 31, 2026

Job Requisition Number:R18830

By focusing on the future and providing the best student experience possible, Iowa State University ( attracts students and faculty who want to make a difference. With a comprehensive?land-grant?mission of education, research, extension and outreach, we produce scholars whose ideas change the world. And through Innovate at Iowa State, we provide innovative and entrepreneurial opportunities for students of all backgrounds. Located just 30 minutes north of Des Moines, the city of Ames was recently named one of the Top 10 cities in the U.S. for campus life and career opportunities.

Iowa State University is a welcoming community of students, faculty, and staff. Campus community members have a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and are committed to engaging with each other respectfully as outlined in the university's Principles of Community ( . Iowa State recognizes that diverse intellectual and philosophical perspectives are vital to innovation, critical thinking skills, and a dynamic academic community that fosters the land-grant ideals of putting science, technology, and human creativity to work.

All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university's verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check and/or a consumer credit check.

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

If you have questions about the application process please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll-Free at 1-877-477-7485. Iowa State University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should email employment@iastate.edu or call (515) 294-4800 or Toll-Free: (877) 477-7485. TTY users are welcome to use the Iowa Relay Service number by dialing 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2942.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources ( website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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