Postdoctoral Research Associate – Patton Lab

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate – Patton Lab.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Complete applications require a
1) cover letter summarizing the candidate’s research experience and interest in
the position, 2) a curriculum vitae and 3) contact information for three
references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue
until the position has been filled.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the
United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The
University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct and lead research on
sustainable polymer materials within the Patton Lab at The University of
Southern Mississippi’s School of Polymer Science and Engineering. The position
centers on advancing polymer materials for applications in sustainability and contributing
to the lab’s overall research mission. The position operates within a
collaborative, multidisciplinary environment and supports the broader goals of
innovation, research translation, and academic excellence. This is a full-time,
12-month appointment, with continuation contingent upon the availability of
external funding.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Conduct independent and collaborative research on sustainable polymer materials, including design, synthesis, processing, and evaluation.
2. Establish relationships between structure, properties, and performance using appropriate analytical, thermal, and mechanical characterization methods.
3. Prepare technical reports, peer reviewed publications, and presentations to communicate research findings and innovation outcomes.
4. Collaborate with academic and external partners to support research initiatives and expand project impact.
5. Mentor and train graduate and undergraduate researchers, support laboratory operations, and ensure compliance with research ethics and environmental health and safety standards.
6. Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum
Qualifications
Doctoral Degree from
an accredited college or university in Polymer Science and Engineering,
Chemistry, or a closely related field. Dissertation must be defended and approved,
and all degree requirements must be met prior to the start of the position. Two
(2) years of experience with multi-step organic and polymer synthesis,
purification, monomer and polymer characterization, and related polymer laboratory
techniques.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of polymer chemistry, polymer characterization, and polymer processing techniques
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills in experimental research
• Strong written and oral scientific communication skills, including preparation of manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations
• Ability to review and edit manuscript drafts and produce publication-quality writing
• Ability to organize, document, and manage experimental data to research-grade standards
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team and contribute to a collaborative and supportive laboratory culture
• Commitment to mentorship, training, and professional development of junior researchers

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern
Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing
students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students
in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the
Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We
are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of
the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in
polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing
language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national
leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography,
nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter
fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such
as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of
business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by
producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of
excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation
accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our
student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and
persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.