Job Description

The Chen lab in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Oberlin College invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral researcher in computational/experimental chemistry. This is 12-month, non-continuing position. The postdoctoral fellow will work with Dr. Shuming Chen on externally funded research projects investigating the functionalization of covalent bonds using transition-metal catalysis and energy transfer catalysis. The research will potentially utilize a combination of computational and experimental techniques to investigate new strategies for the functionalization of strong covalent bonds.

Responsibilities

The postdoctoral research will conduct research by performing density functional theory (DFT) calculations, organic/inorganic synthesis experiments, or a combination thereof. The aim of the research is to develop novel methods for the chemo-, regio- and stereoselective functionalization of strong covalent bonds such as carbon-hydrogen and carbon-carbon bonds using transition metal catalysis or energy transfer catalysis. The postdoctoral fellow will interact with other labs collaborating with the Chen lab on various project areas and contribute to mentoring of Oberlin undergraduate students assisting with the research.

Essential Job Functions

The postdoctoral research will conduct research by performing density functional theory (DFT) calculations, organic/inorganic synthesis experiments, or a combination thereof. The research project aims to develop and investigate novel methods for the chemo-, regio- and stereoselective functionalization of strong covalent bonds such as carbon-hydrogen and carbon-carbon bonds through transition metal catalysis or energy transfer catalysis. The postdoctoral fellow will interact with other labs collaborating with the Chen lab on various project areas and contribute to mentoring of Oberlin undergraduate students assisting with the research.

Marginal Job Functions

Required Qualifications

Required qualifications include: 1) a PhD in chemistry or biochemistry; and 2) research experience in either computational chemistry or synthetic organic/inorganic chemistry.

Desired Qualifications

Compensation

Within the range established for this position, the salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Special Instructions to Applicants

A complete application will be comprised of:

1) a cover letter that includes an articulation of the applicant’s research expertise and interests;

2) a Curriculum Vitae; and

3) List of 3 professional references.

Review of applications will begin on April 20, 2026. Application materials received after that date may be considered until the position is filled.

Questions about the position can be addressed to Dr. Shuming Chen at [email protected].

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Cover Letter

• Curriculum Vitae

• List of References

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