Computational Materials Science Researcher

POSITION: Computational Materials Science Researcher

STATUS: Part-Time / Non-Benefitted / Hourly / Non-Exempt

COMPENSATION: $32.00 - $34.00 per hour

DEPARTMENT: Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

LOCATION: CSU, Chico Campus

RECRUITMENT ID: 400

RESIDENCY : Candidate must be a California resident. Chico State Enterprises is not a sponsoring agency for staff and management positions (i.e., H-1B Visas).

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and working closely with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) scientists, the researcher will conduct research on lithium-sulfur batteries, which theoretically have significantly higher energy densities compared to current battery chemistries, for up to 12 months. Specifically, the selected researcher will focus on atomistic simulations and modeling of structure, reactivity, and transport properties of lithium-containing molecular species in heterogeneous interfaces with metal-organic frameworks for advanced energy storage.

The researcher will work closely with an interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers at LLNL, CSU, Chico, and San Jose State University (SJSU); most of the researcher’s time will be spent interacting with staff researchers at LLNL. This work is expected to result in publications in nationally and internationally recognized journals, as well as applications in projects with renewable energy missions. The researcher will also be expected to work with and mentor undergraduate research students from a variety of academic backgrounds.

The major duty of the researcher is to conduct theoretical research under the supervision of Drs. Wan and Kim at LLNL and Dr. So at CSU, Chico. More specifically, the job duties tentatively include the following:

• Perform density functional theory-based electronic structure calculations and/or classical molecular dynamics simulations in a high-performance computing environment.
• Develop structure-composition-property relationships for optimizing transport and reactivity using statistical, analytical, and machine learning methodologies.
• Collect, prepare, and analyze research data; discuss results in group meetings.
• Contribute to and actively participate in the conception, design and execution of research to address defined problems.
• Collaborate with computational and experimental scientists at LLNL and SJSU to accomplish research goals.
• Document research, publish papers in peer-reviewed journals, and present results within the DOE community and at conferences and technical meetings.
• Supervise student personnel and coordinate research efforts for increased efficiency; participate in the training of students and volunteer workers as needed.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

• Applicant must have a graduate degree in materials science and engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemistry, physics, or related field, specifically:
• PhD, earned within 5 years prior to employment.
• Experience in the application of density functional theory or molecular dynamics simulations of chemical reactions and/or transport phenomena in materials.
• Experience performing simulations in high-performance computing environments.
• Ability to work independently on technical tasks, influence technical objectives, provide in-depth analysis, and develop unique technical solutions.
• Ability to develop independent research directions and describe results effectively in peer-reviewed literature.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively in a team environment, prepare written reports, and present and explain technical information.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to interact with a diverse set of scientists, engineers, undergraduate and graduate students, and other technical and administrative staff in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

Preferred:

• Strong academic background.
• Experience performing classical molecular dynamics simulations and developing post-processing tools.
• Experience applying statistical, analytical, or machine learning methods for data analysis.
• Technical experience and a proven publication record in simulation and modeling of chemical reactions and transport properties, ideally related to metal-organic frameworks or lithium-sulfur batteries.
• Familiarity with collaboration and integration of modeling with experimental characterization techniques.

BENEFITS:

• Sick leave (up to 5 days/year)

HOW TO APPLY:

To be considered, submit the following documents by January 12, 2026. Documents submitted after this date may not be considered.

• Resume
• Chico State Enterprises Application
• Cover Letter
• 3 Professional References

BY DROP BOX:

BY EMAIL: [email protected]

Paper applications will not be accepted; however, Chico State Enterprises is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is happy to provide reasonable accommodation to applicants at any step of the application process. If you need assistance in this regard, or are having technical difficulties, please contact the Human Resources office at 530-898-6811 or [email protected] prior to 5:00 p.m. on the document deadline date. The employer is Chico State Enterprises, a nonprofit corporation serving as an auxiliary organization of California State University, Chico. Employment is considered to be at-will.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:

Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, Chico State Enterprises provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. It is Chico State Enterprises’ policy to hire only United States citizens and aliens lawfully authorized to work in the United States. All new employees must provide proof of identity and authorization to work.