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Photocatalysis Jobs (NOW HIRING)

South Dakota Mines

Postdoctoral Researcher

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$53K - $60K/yr

Prior experiences with electron microscopy, electrochemistry, photocatalysis, and nanomaterials synthesis are highly preferred. South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented ...

South Dakota Mines

Postdoctoral Researcher

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$54K - $60K/yr

Prior experiences with electron microscopy, electrochemistry, photocatalysis, and nanomaterials synthesis are highly preferred. To Apply: South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a ...

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Photocatalysis information

What careers are available in green chemistry?

Careers in green chemistry include roles such as research scientists, chemical engineers, environmental consultants, and sustainability specialists focused on developing eco-friendly chemical processes and products. These positions often require knowledge of chemistry, environmental science, and sustainable practices, and may involve working in laboratories, manufacturing facilities, or regulatory agencies.

What are some common challenges faced by researchers working in photocatalysis, and how can they be addressed?

Researchers in photocatalysis often encounter challenges such as optimizing catalyst efficiency, controlling selectivity of reactions, and ensuring stability under various operating conditions. Addressing these challenges typically involves interdisciplinary collaboration with chemists, material scientists, and engineers to develop new materials and testing methods. Additionally, keeping up with advances in analytical techniques and computational modeling can help overcome obstacles and drive innovation in the field.

What jobs can you do with applied chemistry?

Applied chemistry offers careers such as research scientist, chemical technician, quality control analyst, and process engineer. These roles involve developing new materials, testing products, and improving manufacturing processes, often requiring laboratory skills and knowledge of chemical analysis tools.

What kind of jobs can you get as a scientist?

A scientist specializing in photocatalysis can work in research and development roles in industries such as environmental technology, energy, and materials science. Common positions include research scientist, laboratory technician, project manager, and product developer, often requiring knowledge of chemistry, materials, and laboratory techniques.

What is photocatalysis?

Photocatalysis is a process in which a substance, known as a photocatalyst, accelerates a chemical reaction when exposed to light, usually ultraviolet or visible light. This process is widely used to break down pollutants, purify water and air, and in the production of renewable energy, such as hydrogen from water splitting. Photocatalysts, commonly titanium dioxide (TiO2), absorb light energy and generate reactive species that drive chemical transformations. The field of photocatalysis is significant in both environmental and industrial applications for its potential in green chemistry and sustainable technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Photocatalysis Research Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Photocatalysis Research Scientist, you need a solid background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a Master's or PhD. Proficiency with laboratory instruments (e.g., spectrophotometers, X-ray diffraction), data analysis software, and familiarity with photocatalytic systems are essential. Critical thinking, creativity, and strong written and verbal communication skills help in designing experiments and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for advancing innovative research and developing effective photocatalytic applications in areas like environmental remediation and renewable energy.

What do photocatalysts do?

Photocatalysts are materials used in photocatalysis to accelerate chemical reactions when exposed to light, typically by generating reactive species that break down pollutants or produce useful chemicals. Photocatalysis is applied in environmental cleanup, water treatment, and air purification, often requiring knowledge of chemistry and materials science. Job roles may involve developing, testing, and applying photocatalytic materials using laboratory equipment and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Photocatalysis vs Chemical Technician?

AspectPhotocatalysisChemical Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's degree in chemistry, chemical technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, environmental cleanup sites, manufacturing facilitiesManufacturing plants, laboratories, quality control settings
Industry UsageEnvironmental remediation, water treatment, air purificationProduction, quality assurance, process monitoring

Photocatalysis involves using light-activated catalysts to accelerate chemical reactions, often for environmental or energy applications. Chemical Technicians support chemical processes, perform tests, and monitor production. While both roles require chemistry knowledge, Photocatalysis specialists focus on research and application of light-driven reactions, whereas Chemical Technicians assist in manufacturing and testing processes.

More about Photocatalysis jobs
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What states have the most Photocatalysis jobs? States with the most job openings for Photocatalysis jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Photocatalysis jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Photocatalysis jobs are:
Photocatalysis jobs near you
Environmental Analytical Post Doc Researcher

Environmental Analytical Post Doc Researcher

Fraunhofer USA

East Lansing, MI • On-site

$111K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Overview

Fraunhofer USA, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on applied research that bridges the gap between fundamental science and industry, accelerating technology development and market adoption. Located on the Michigan State University campus in East Lansing, the Fraunhofer USA Center Midwest (CMW) specializes in advanced materials and environmental technologies, including water treatment and contaminant analysis.

Fraunhofer USA Center Midwest is seeking a highly motivated and technically strong Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Water Treatment group under the supervision of Ibrahim Abusallout.

This position will focus on the development of novel and advanced analytical method for PFAS analysis in water. The successful candidate will play a key role in a Water Research Foundation–funded project aimed at developing an innovative PFAS analytical tool using a microfluidic electrochemical reactor.

In addition, the Postdoctoral Fellow will have opportunities to contribute to other NSF-, EPA-, and industry-funded projects focused on the development of remediation technologies (e.g., electrochemical oxidation, photolysis/photocatalysis, and adsorption) for PFAS and other contaminants. The candidate will also be encouraged to develop independent research ideas, pursue internal and external funding opportunities, present results at conferences, mentor students and interns, and prepare manuscripts for publication.

The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in advanced environmental analytical chemistry, with demonstrated experience in the analysis of organic contaminants such as PFAS, disinfection byproducts (DBPs), and pesticides. A strong background in analytical method development and validation is required, including optimization of sample preparation and preconcentration techniques (e.g., solid-phase extraction (SPE)).

Applicants should have hands-on experience with targeted and non-targeted analysis (NTA) using advanced instrumentation, including LC-MS/MS, high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS, e.g., QTOF), GC-MS/MS, and related techniques.

This is a full-time position with an initial appointment of one year, renewable based on performance and funding availability. The preferred start date is July–August 2026.

Required Qualifications

  • PhD. in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field or equivalent experience
  • Strong background in environmental analytical chemistry
  • Hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS, as well as sample preparation and preconcentration techniques (e.g., SPE)
  • Demonstrated experience in analytical method development and validation
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to manage and contribute to multiple projects simultaneously
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS, e.g., QTOF)
  • Expertise in non-targeted analysis (NTA), suspect screening, and feature extraction workflows
  • Experience in structural elucidation of unknown compounds using accurate mass and fragmentation patterns
  • Experience in the identification of volatile and semi-volatile compounds, including gas-phase byproduct capture (e.g., headspace, purge-and-trap, thermal desorption)
  • Knowledge of transformation pathways and reaction mechanisms of contaminants during water treatment, including transformation product analysis using advanced mass spectrometry tools
  • Prior publication record in peer-reviewed journals
  • Strong mentoring, communication, and leadership skills

Application Instructions

Prospective applicants should submit a single PDF containing:

  • An up-to-date CV
  • A brief statement of research interests

Fraunhofer USA is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other classification protected by applicable laws.