Postdoctoral Research Associate - Sustainable & Circular Polymer Materials at Washington State University in Pullman, WA

Job description

Online applications must be received before 11:59pm on: November 4, 2026 If a date is not listed above, review the Applicant Instructions below for more details. Available Title(s): 306-YY_FACULTY - Postdoctoral Research Associate Business Title: Postdoctoral Research Associate - Sustainable & Circular Polymer Materials Employee Type: Faculty (+) (Fixed Term) Position Term: 12 Month Position Details: The Opportunity: The Composite Materials & Engineering Center (CMEC) at Washington State University seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct research in sustainable and circular polymer materials. The position supports CMEC’s interdisciplinary mission to advance renewable materials, polymer innovation, and circular economy solutions for industry and society. The postdoctoral researcher will work on synthesis, characterization, and application development of next‑generation biobased and recycled polymer systems. The role includes hands-on laboratory research, collaboration with CMEC faculty and industry partners, and contributions to student mentoring and proposal development. The successful candidate will contribute directly to CMEC's research portfolio through work centered on: 1. Synthesis and application development of biobased polymer materials , including systems derived from vegetable oils, renewable chemicals, soy protein, lignin, and other bio-based feedstocks. 2. Chemical recycling and upcycling of plastic and composite waste , with emphasis on polyesters and thermoset polymer composites. 3. Design, fabrication, and characterization of sustainable polymer materials for structural and non-structural applications. Benefits: WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation, optional supplemental retirement accounts. For additional information, please review the detailed Summary of Benefits offered by WSU for Faculty and Total Compensation . For information or questions about Benefits, please contact HRS Benefits at 509-335-4521. Additional Information: Annual Salary: $62,232 | Commensurate with experience and qualifications In accordance with RCW 49.58.110 , the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate’s current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. Successful candidates typically begin up to mid-point of the salary range. This is a full time (100% FTE), temporary position. This position is overtime eligible. Appointment Duration: This is a temporary position expected to start on January 1, 2027 and end on December 31, 2027 . Renewal is dependent on the need for extension and/or if additional funding is secured to extend employment. Required Qualifications: A doctoral degree in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, polymer science, materials science and engineering, or a closely related science or engineering discipline. Research experience in organic synthesis, polymer synthesis, or related chemical/materials synthesis. Demonstrated ability to communicate research findings effectively through scientific writing and oral presentations. Preferred Qualifications: Organic synthesis and polymerization skills Position Sponsorship Eligibility: May be eligible for work visa sponsorship About Department/College/Area/ Campus - cmec.wsu.edu Area/College: College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences ( CAHNRS) Department Name: Composite Materials & Engineering Center Location: Pullman, WA Application Instructions: Applicants must upload the following required documents to their online application. Application materials should clearly communicate how the applicant meets all required qualifications and additional requirements. 1) Resume 2) Cover Letter External candidates , upload all documents in the “Applic