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Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a multi-phase combustion computational fluid dynamics (CFD ... For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.) CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME ...

All JobsCombustion Researcher Postdoctoral Jobs

Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral information

See salary details

$56K

$117K

How much do combustion researcher postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for combustion researcher postdoctoral in the United States is $113,746.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral vs Mechanical Engineer Postdoctoral?

AspectCombustion Researcher PostdoctoralMechanical Engineer Postdoctoral
Required CredentialsPhD in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical Engineering with focus on combustionPhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field, often with specialization in design or thermodynamics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industry R&D centers focused on combustion and energy systemsResearch labs, industry R&D, or academic settings working on mechanical systems and design
Employer & Industry UsageEnergy, aerospace, automotive sectors, and academiaManufacturing, energy, automotive, aerospace, and academia

The Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral role primarily focuses on studying and developing combustion processes, requiring expertise in thermodynamics and chemical reactions. In contrast, a Mechanical Engineer Postdoctoral often works on broader mechanical systems, design, and thermodynamics. Both roles require a PhD and are found in research environments, but their specific focus areas and industry applications differ.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral fellow in experimental or simulation work?

Combustion Researcher Postdocs often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex experimental setups, ensuring accurate data collection, and managing the unpredictable nature of combustion reactions. Balancing time between hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, and manuscript preparation can also be demanding. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams—such as chemical engineers, computational modelers, and safety personnel—is essential to address these challenges and drive innovative research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral, you need an advanced degree (Ph.D.) in mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field, with a strong background in combustion science and thermal-fluid systems. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, laser diagnostics, and data analysis tools, as well as experience publishing in peer-reviewed journals, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams help set candidates apart. These skills are vital to advancing innovative research, interpreting complex data, and contributing to scientific progress in combustion technology.

What are Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral positions?

Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral positions are temporary research roles, typically held after completing a Ph.D., focused on studying the chemical and physical processes of combustion. These researchers work in academic, government, or industrial labs to advance understanding of fuel efficiency, emissions, and alternative energy sources. Their work often involves experimental and computational methods to analyze combustion reactions, develop cleaner technologies, and contribute to scientific publications.
Infographic showing various Combustion Researcher Postdoctoral job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,746 per year, or $54.7 per hour.
Postdoctoral Researcher - Computational and Theoretical Chemistry

Postdoctoral Researcher - Computational and Theoretical Chemistry

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

$113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Postdoctoral Researcher - Computational and Theoretical ChemistryAppointment Type:Post Doc/TraineeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

The Postdoctoral Researcher will study the energetics and dynamics of chemical systems in both gas and condensed phases. Research areas include reactions under astrochemical conditions, atmospheric processes, combustion systems, and physiological environments.


Required Minimum Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Chemistry or a closely related field


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience with quantum chemistry calculations and molecular dynamics simulations
  • Demonstrated experience in scientific programming for computational chemistry applications
  • Demonstrated experience with machine learning-based force field development
  • Strong publication record in reputable, peer-reviewed journals

Department/Program & College Description:

The Department of Chemistry in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University is a leading center for research, education, and innovation in the chemical sciences. The department offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs and fosters a collaborative environment where students and faculty engage in hands-on, cutting-edge research. Faculty and students work across a broad range of disciplines-including analytical, inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry-often partnering with the U.S. Department of Energy's Ames National Laboratory. With a strong emphasis on discovery, interdisciplinary collaboration, and student success, the department prepares graduates to address complex scientific challenges in academia, industry, and beyond


Department Unit/Website:
Department of Chemistry


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:


Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Letter of Application/Cover Letter


Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees 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)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.


Proposed Start Date:July 1, 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:Time Type:Full timePay Grade:Post DocsOriginal Posting Date:June 1, 2026Posting Close Date:June 7, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19331

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.

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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