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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 ...

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Photocatalysis information

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 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 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
What cities are hiring for Photocatalysis jobs? Cities with the most Photocatalysis job openings:
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
Infographic showing various Photocatalysis job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Postdoctoral Researcher

South Dakota Mines

Rapid City, SD • On-site

$53K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Logo
Institution
South Dakota Mines
Working Title
Postdoctoral Researcher
Posting Number
NFE02537P
Department
SDSMT-Nanoscience and Nanoengineering 1
Physical Location of Position (City)
Rapid City
Posting Text
The Nanoscience & Biomedical Engineering Department at South Dakota Mines invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position within Dr. Shan Zhou's research group. This is a full-time benefited position. This position will conduct research in the area of nanoparticle synthesis and self-assembly, as well as electron microscopy studies on nanoscale building blocks. This position will be responsible for conceiving, designing, and conducting experiments, with an emphasis on using wet chemistry methods to prepare nanomaterials and soft materials for microscopy imaging, and operating transmission electron microscope. This position will be expected to conduct data analysis, prepare publications, and present research findings in regional and national conferences.
A PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, Nanoscience and Nanoengineering or equivalent is required. Prior experiences with electron microscopy, electrochemistry, photocatalysis, and nanomaterials synthesis are highly preferred.
South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an excellent comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage options for employees, spouses and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance. Individuals interested in this position must apply online at Careers at Mines (sdsmt.edu). Human Resources can provide accommodation to the online application process and may be reached at (605) 394-1203. Review of applications will begin December 20, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled. Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation.
Please attach a cover letter, resume, representative publications (up to three), and a list of three professional references (include name and email address for each reference). Candidates are encouraged to directly contact Dr. Shan Zhou (shan.zhou@sdsmt.edu) for more information.
Posting Date
11/21/2024
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Consideration Date
12/20/2024
Advertised Salary
$53,340 - $60,000 depending on education and experience
Duration of the Term
12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent
100
Work Hours
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type
Regular
Faculty Status
No
Scope of Search
External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires
No Requirement
If other, please indicate
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
South Dakota Mines is a best-in-class STEM university that offers bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees located in Rapid City, the state's second largest city with a MSA population of over 158,000. With 226 days of sunshine, 1.2 million acres of breathtaking scenery of the Black Hills National Forest, 700 miles of motorized trails and nearly 500 miles of hiking trails, there is a lot to see and do. People from around the world come here each year to see top attractions like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Badlands National Park, Terry Peak Ski Area, and Reptile Gardens. There's something for everybody!
At Mines, our vision is to develop world-class leaders in science and engineering to benefit society through education, innovation, and engagement. Nearly 2,500 students from every state and over 40 countries are represented on our campus. Mines is an affordable option with a great return on investment.
Known for our academic rigor, we maintain an average class size of 24 and our students benefit from immersive learning experiences including undergraduate research, co-ops/internships, and nationally competitive engineering teams. These experiences make graduates highly sought after by industry and attributes to high starting salaries and 98% placement rate in the field of study.
Research at Mines encompasses four main areas: energy and environment; materials and manufacturing; STEM education; and underground science and engineering. Entrepreneurship is highly valued and programming assists students and faculty to engage in entrepreneurial activities and transition scientific and technological innovations into viable products and business startups.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
South Dakota Mines does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, gender identification, transgender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, genetic information or veteran status in employment or the provision of service.
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