Graduate Assistant in Heterogeneous Catalysis - The University of Akron

Graduate Assistant in Heterogeneous Catalysis - The University of Akron

Dr. Linxiao Chen's Group (website: linxiao-chen.com) is seeking one (1) highly motivated graduate student to join his research group at the Department of Chemical, Biomolecular, and Corrosion Engineering of The University of Akron (UA). The position offers full financial support (tuition waiver + stipend). The ideal candidate would be able to start in Spring (Jan) 2025, but extraordinary candidate for Fall 2025 will be considered.

The student will conduct heterogeneous catalysis research for sustainability. Possible topics, depending on the student's interest, include CO2, utilization, hydrogen storage and release, and polymer waste upcycling. The student will use comprehensive spectroscopic and kinetic methods to study reaction mechanism and structure-function relationship of the reactions, and use the fundamental knowledge to guide catalyst design.

What you will enjoy:

• Rigorous interdisciplinary training in catalysis, spectroscopy, kinetics, and materials • Working in a supportive, engaging, vibrant, and student-centered environment

• Opportunities for high-impact publications and conference presentations

⚫ Routine access to state-of-the-art resources at UA and DOE's National Laboratories • Broad collaboration with researchers from diverse backgrounds

Improving skills in data analysis, problem solving, logical/critical thinking, and writing What you will need for success:

BS/MS in Chemical Engineering, or MS in Chemistry/Physics/Materials Science; other engineering degrees will be considered with strong background in chemistry • Interest in catalysis; knowledge in spectroscopy, kinetics, and/or materials • Passions for research, desires for knowledge, and self-motivations for success ⚫ Strong analytical, logical thinking, and communication skills

English Test score for International Students: TOEFL ≥ 79 (Speaking ≥ 23 by enrollment preferred) or IELTS ≥ 6.0 (Speaking 26.5 by enrollment preferred)

Interested candidates are encouraged to send their CV, with a brief summary (NO MORE than 2 paragraphs) of their research experience/interest, to lchen@uakron.edu. Due to the high volume of emails, we apologize in advance that NOT all will be replied to. About Dr. Linxiao Chen:

Linxiao received his B.S. from Peking University (2014) and Ph.D. from Indiana University (2019). Prior to joining UA in 2023, he was a postdoc at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Cross-trained in chemistry and chemical engineering, Linxiao has expertise in catalysis, in-situ spectroscopy, kinetics, and synchrotron techniques. Linxiao's research and education philosophy emphasizes soft skill training and interdisciplinary collaboration.