Research Assistant Professor/Molecule Maker Lab Institute

Research Assistant Professor

 

Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering/Molecule Maker Lab Institute

 

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

 

The Molecule Maker Lab Institute (MMLI) is an NSF Artificial Intelligence Institute for Molecular Discovery, Synthetic Strategy, and Manufacturing at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is becoming a global epicenter for molecule making innovation. The MMLI is seeking a Research Assistant Professor who will collaborate with researchers across all Institute Thrusts to apply artificial intelligence to synthesis planning, catalyst design and optimization, manufacturing, development of functional materials, and broadening access to molecule making.

 

This position will provide multiple opportunities for professional development that will help prepare them for an academic faculty position or an industry managerial position.

 

The qualified candidate must (1) manage interdisciplinary research projects in the institute to facilitate their impact and completion and (2) conduct pioneering research at the interface of chemistry and computer science on a project of interest. The candidate must also provide chemistry/computer science expertise and support to MMLI.

 

 

 

Required Qualifications:

 

Required: An earned Ph.D. in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields of study is required. Alternate degree fields will be considered/accepted if accompanied by equivalent experience, depending upon the nature and depth of the experience as it relates to this position.

 

A minimum of 2 years’ experience in a postdoctoral or higher-level position.

 

Engaged in state-of-the-art research in molecular synthesis (broadly defined – for example, biocatalysis, medicinal, polymer, materials science, natural product synthesis/biosynthesis) or methodology development.

 

Capable of independently securing funding as needed for their research program.

 

Strong and poised interpersonal and relationship building skills, ability to work collaboratively and cross-functionally with internal and external parties, ability to serve as a technical resource across teams, and have the ability to supervise others, encouraging success of team members. The ideal candidate will possess excellent oral and written communication skills for technical and general audiences and have the ability to work independently and take initiative when needed.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

 

Postdoctoral experience in chemistry or chemical engineering.

 

A strong publication record.

 

Ability to lead collaborations amongst multiple researchers, ability to lead the writing of scientific papers, and ability to meet environmental demands.

 

General familiarity with the field of computer science and knowledge in one or more of the following areas: Biocatalysis, Organic synthesis, Methodology development, Organic materials, High-throughput experimentation, Machine learning, and Algorithm development.

 

Commitment to diversity and inclusion with an awareness of, and sensitivity to, cultural and linguistic differences. Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.  Excellent organizational skills. Ability to work harmoniously with faculty, staff, and students from a wide variety of disciplines.

 

Appointment Information:

 

The Research Assistant Professor position is a full-time, benefits-eligible non-tenure track specialized faculty position appointed on a 12-month service basis. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Start date is as soon as possible after the closing date

 

Application Procedures & Deadline Information:

 

The application closing date is October 31, 2022. Applicants may be interviewed before the closing date; however, no hiring decision will be made under after that date. To apply, visit go.chbe.illinois.edu/ApplyNowMMLI

 

(1) Cover letter

 

(2) Curriculum vitae, which includes scholarly works

 

(3) Names and contact information of at least three active researchers at comparable institutions, among whom the department will solicit letters of reference that address the candidate’s qualifications related to the position of research assistant professor. References will be contacted at a later date.

 

(4) Description of prior research accomplishments (2 pages)

 

(5) Statement that summarizes teaching philosophy and experience (1 page) 

 

(6) Statement of future research program directions and plan for contributing scholarship that enhances the Department, MMLI, and University and makes an impact beyond the Campus (3 pages)

 

(7) Statement describing candidate’s approach to and experience with diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education (1 page) 

 

For further information about this specific position, please contact chbe_apply@scs.illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

 

The University of Illinois must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures for applicants.

 

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID-19 vaccination requirement, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

 

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.