Postdoctoral Research Associate

Job Summary:

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work with the Harvey Research Group to advance fundamental understanding of the energy and molecular dynamics that drive conformational changes, interactions, and transformations of biogenic and non-biogenic organic molecules at mineral-water interfaces. This position is part of a broader research program that investigate how molecular-scale interactions between organic compounds and mineral surfaces influence the behavior of elements and compounds of biogeochemical, economic, and national strategic relevance - including carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, transition metals, rare earth elements (REEs), and critical minerals. This role is a 2-year initial appointment, renewable based on performance and funding.

The project specifically explores how energy partitioning (including enthalpy of binding, entropy loss, hydration layer disruption) drives adsorption and structural change of organic molecules at mineral interfaces, with the goals of:
• Quantifying the relationship between mineral surface properties and conformational change in organic molecules
• Understanding how energetic constraints and binding configurations modulate catalytic activity, stability, and reactivity
• Integrating experimental calorimetry and spectroscopy with molecular simulations to construct predictive structure-energy-function models

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Designs and leads experimental studies using flow adsorption microcalorimetry (FAMC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to quantify binding energetics and conformational outcomes.
2. Conducts and interprets molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to support mechanistic insights into adsorption and conformational dynamics.
3. Integrates experimental and computational results to identify molecular features (e.g., hydration layer disruption, binding configurations) driving structural change.
4. Mentors graduate and undergraduate students in the Harvey Research Group
5. Leads and/or contributes to collaborative manuscript and proposal writing.
6. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience:

• Ph.D. in Geochemistry, Soil Chemistry, Environmental Engineering or a closely related discipline. Ph.D. must be awarded prior to start date and within the past 3 years.
• Experience in laboratory-based surface or interface chemistry, adsorption thermodynamics, or environmental molecular geochemistry
• Experience in molecular modeling, particularly molecular dynamics simulations applied to mineral, interface, or biological systems

Preferred Education & Experience:

• Experience working across disciplines (e.g., structural biology, materials science, soil science)

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• None

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• Proficiency with calorimetry (e.g., FAMC, ITC), spectroscopy (e.g., FTIR), and/or imaging (e.g., AFM) tools
• Familiarity with MD simulation tools such as GROMACS, AMBER, or LAMMPS
• Familiarity with and interest in systems relevant to biogeochemical cycles, contaminant fate, or critical material recovery

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of geochemistry and other related principals
• Strong analytical, organizational, and scientific writing skills
• Skills in project organization and management
• Skill in outstanding verbal and written communication.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member
• Ability to demonstrate excellent organizational and time management skills including the accurate estimate of timelines and adherence to deadlines.

TCU Core Competencies:

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations):

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms and other printed materials and information.
• Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions.
• Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling and prolonged sitting.
• Lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Work is indoors and sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• This role is an on campus, in-person position.
• There are no harmful environmental conditions present for this job.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate.

Employment Values Statement:

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.