Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Inorganic Chemistry, Spring 2026 bei Chapman University

The Mekhail Catalysis lab at Schmid College of Science and Technology of Chapman University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow beginning March 2026 or later (start date negotiable).

Chapman University, located in the heart of Orange County, California, offers traditional undergraduate programs in the arts and sciences and select pre-professional and graduate programs. The university is a nationally ranked R2 research institution with a commitment to excellence through world-class research and innovative teaching. Science and engineering programs at Chapman are growing rapidly and are housed in the brand new Keck Center for Science and Engineering. More information is available here: www.chapman.edu/keckcenter.

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our new research group at Chapman University. Our laboratory focuses on developing innovative catalytic systems using earth-abundant metals to address pressing environmental and energy challenges. The successful candidate will lead cutting-edge projects at the intersection of inorganic and organic synthesis, catalysis, and environmental chemistry.

The postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to develop independent research ideas while contributing to our group's broader mission of advancing sustainable chemistry. The position offers significant mentoring responsibilities with undergraduate researchers, providing valuable teaching and leadership experience. The successful candidate will help shape our undergraduate research program, creating projects that balance scientific rigor with educational value.

The postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to lead one or both of our key research initiatives:

Project 1: Charged Pyridine Ligands for Enhanced Metal-Ligand Cooperativity in Hydrogenation Catalysts

This project focuses on designing and studying transition metal complexes (Fe, Mn, Co) with pyridine-based pincer ligands for catalytic hydrogenation reactions. By strategically introducing charged functionalities to the pyridine ring, we aim to enhance metal-ligand cooperativity and develop more efficient catalysts for transformations critical to renewable energy applications, including CO₂ reduction. The project involves:

• Synthesis of novel Fe, Mn, and Co(PNP) pincer complexes with charged substituents

• Detailed thermodynamic studies (pKa, hydricity) of dearomatized and hydride species

• Mechanistic investigation of metal-ligand cooperativity

• Catalytic application in hydrogenation reactions

• Advanced characterization using NMR, UV-Vis, and electrochemical techniques

Project 2: Electrocatalytic Defluorination Using Vitamin B12 Mimics

This project aims to develop cobalt-based pincer electrocatalysts inspired by vitamin B12 for the degradation of persistent environmental contaminants, particularly per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The postdoctoral researcher will:

• Design and synthesize a library of Co(III) pincer complexes that mimic the active site of vitamin B12

• Conduct stoichiometric chemical and electrochemical studies of C-F bond cleavage

• Develop and optimize electrocatalytic systems for PFAS degradation

• Analyze reaction mechanisms and degradation products using LCMS techniques

• Establish structure-function relationships for rational catalyst design

Responsibilities:

We are seeking early career scientists who will have the following responsibilities as a postdoctoral fellow:

• Lead research projects related to catalyst development and characterization

• Develop and optimize synthetic routes for novel metal complexes

• Design and execute catalytic and mechanistic studies

• Analyze and interpret experimental data

• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals

• Present research at national/international conferences

• Mentor undergraduate researchers

• Contribute to grant proposals and reporting

• Collaborate with other research groups as needed

Required:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field

• Strong background in synthetic inorganic or organometallic chemistry

• Experience with air-sensitive synthesis techniques (glovebox, Schlenk line)

• Proficiency in spectroscopic and analytical techniques (NMR, UV-Vis, cyclic voltammetry)

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Preferred:

• Background in catalysis, electrochemistry, or environmental remediation

• Publication record in high-quality peer-reviewed journals

• Mentoring experience with undergraduate researchers

• Demonstrated project management skills

To apply, please submit the following materials via Interfolio:

• One page cover letter describing research experience and interests

• CV, including publication list

• Research statement

• Names and contact information for three references

Questions may be submitted to Dr. Magy Mekhail ([email protected]). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Successful completion of a background check is required for the final candidate. The annual salary for this postdoctoral research fellow position is $70,304. This position is contingent on final budget approval.