The Tonks Lab at the University of Minnesota is seeking highly motivated postdoctoral researchers to work on several projects related to synthesis and catalysis in polymer science. This includes work on CO2-derived polymers, polymer skeletal editing, carbonylative polymerization, and a joint project with LoopCO2, a UMN start-up, focused on commercializing some of these polymers.
SCHOLARSHIP AT A GLANCE:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Tonks Lab, University of Minnesota |
| Field of Study | Polymer Science, Chemistry, Materials Science |
| Projects | CO2-derived Polymers, Polymer Skeletal Editing, Carbonylative Polymerization, Commercialization |
| Eligibility | PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science or related field, strong experience in organometallic synthesis/catalysis or polymer synthesis/characterization |
| Required Skills | Creativity, ambition, collaborative mindset, interest in mentoring graduate students |
| Salary | $62,000 |
| Start Date | Immediate, flexible |
| Application Deadline | Rolling basis starting October 10 |
| How to Apply | Send cover letter, CV, and 2 references to Professor Ian Tonks (itonks@umn.edu) |
Fact About The University of Minnesota
- The Birthplace of the Internet: The University of Minnesota is one of the original nodes of the ARPANET, the precursor to the modern-day internet. In 1971, U of M professors and students helped develop and test the network.
- Home to the World’s Largest Collection of Sherlock Holmes: The University’s Andersen Library houses the Sherlock Holmes Collections, boasting over 60,000 items, including rare books, manuscripts, and memorabilia.
- Pioneers in Organ Transplantation: University of Minnesota doctors performed the world’s first successful bone marrow transplant in 1968 and the first successful heart transplant in the United States in 1967.
- The U of M Has a NASA Connection: The University’s Department of Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics has contributed to numerous NASA projects, including designing parts for the Apollo 11 moon landing.
- The Iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry: The beloved Minneapolis Sculpture Garden’s Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture was designed by U of M alumnus Claes Oldenburg.
- A Hotbed for Entrepreneurship: The University of Minnesota has spawned over 300 startups, including Google-acquired company, Viv Labs, and Medtronic, one of the world’s largest medical device companies.
- From Farm to Table: The U of M’s St. Paul campus is home to the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, which features over 5,000 plant species and a stunning 3,400 acres of gardens.
- Nobel Prize Pedigree: University of Minnesota alumni and faculty have won a total of 26 Nobel Prizes, including awards in Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, and Literature.
- Breaking Barriers in Space Exploration: University of Minnesota alumna, Peggy Whitson, holds the record for the most time spent in space by an American astronaut.
- A Leader in Sustainability: The University of Minnesota has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 50% since 2008 and aims to become carbon neutral by 2050.
Eligible Fields For 2025 Scholarship In Polymer Science, University of Minnesota
- CO2-derived Polymers
- Polymer Skeletal Editing
- Carbonylative Polymerization
- Commercialization of Polymers (in collaboration with LoopCO2)
Eligibility For 2025 Scholarship In Polymer Science, University of Minnesota
- PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field
- Strong experience in organometallic synthesis/catalysis or polymer synthesis/characterization
- Interest in mentoring graduate students
- Creativity, ambition, and a collaborative mindset
Description For 2025 Scholarship In Polymer Science, University of Minnesota
The postdoctoral researcher will work on cutting-edge projects in the field of polymer science. Projects include the development of CO2-derived polymers and innovative polymer skeletal editing techniques, with opportunities to contribute to the commercialization of these materials in collaboration with LoopCO2. The position also includes mentoring younger graduate students and developing a detailed career-oriented training plan.
The starting salary for this position is $62,000. The position is available immediately, and the start date is flexible.
How To Apply For 2025 Scholarship In Polymer Science, University of Minnesota
Interested candidates should send the following application materials to Professor Ian Tonks at itonks@umn.edu:
- Brief cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Names and contact information for two references
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis starting October 10.