Position Summary We are seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to join the Barnes Research Group in the Department of Chemistry at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU). The starting date is flexible, preferred in Summer 2026, and can be as early as July 1, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The Scholar will become part of an exciting project supported by the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) with an overall research focus on the synthesis of well-defined polyacrylonitrile-based polymers and establishing how the stereochemistry (tacticity) of the precursor polymer influences the extent of crystallinity and resulting properties in carbon fibers. The work combines advanced polymer synthesis, precise stereochemical control, and materials fabrication and characterization to develop next-generation precursors for high-performance carbon fibers. Specific to this position, the successful candidate will focus on organic and polymer chemistry to design, synthesize, and characterize new polyacrylonitrile (PAN) copolymers with tailored stereochemistry (including controlled-tacticity polyacrylamides and related precursors). Emphasis will be placed on monomer synthesis, radical-based polymerization methods, post-polymerization functionalization/modification (e.g., conversion routes to PAN analogs), and a variety of analytical techniques to quantify well-defined polymeric materials and their tacticity (IR, NMR, GPC, thermal analysis, etc.). The candidate will also contribute to studies linking precursor stereochemistry to carbon fiber crystallinity (via Raman, XRD, DSC, mechanical testing, etc.). The work takes place in a highly collaborative environment within the Department of Chemistry and benefits from WashU’s state-of-the-art characterization resources. Founded in 1853, WashU is a leading private research university renowned for excellence in research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The candidate will work in the state-of-the-art facilities in the Department of Chemistry at WashU, including Bryan Hall and the McMillen Chemistry Laboratory. A Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline must be completed by the time of employment. Candidates should demonstrate a successful track record of research accomplishments in polymer synthesis and characterization, along with a desire to accelerate discovery in a team-driven environment. Special consideration will be given to applicants with hands-on experience in organic/polymer synthesis, controlled or stereospecific polymerization techniques, post-polymerization modification, and polymer characterization methods (especially tacticity determination by NMR).

Experience

or strong interest in polymer-derived carbon materials, fiber processing, or crystallinity analysis is highly desirable. Excellent communication skills, chemical hygiene/safety practices, and student mentoring experience are valued. Job Description Primary

Duties

&

Responsibilities

Information on being a postdoc at WashU in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/. Salary Range: Base pay is commensurate with experience. Applicant Special Instructions: To Apply: Combined into a single PDF, please send the following application materials to Prof. Jonathan C. Barnes at jcbarnes@wustl.edu with “Postdoctoral Scholar Position – PAN-based Carbon Fibers” in the subject line. The PDF should include: 1. Cover Letter (1-2 pages) describing qualifications, career ambitions, and how this position can assist in these goals. 2. Research Statement (2-3 pages) summarizing accomplishments and clearly describing work performed by the applicant, with emphasis on polymer synthesis and characterization, and any experience preparing carbon fibers, although not a strict requirement. 3. Current CV that includes up to 3 references who have agreed to be contacted if necessary. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time. Required

Qualifications

Education

Ph.D., M.D. Or Equivalent Terminal Or Doctoral Degree. Certifications/Professional Licenses: No specific certification/professional license is required for this position. Work

Experience

No specific work experience is required for this position. Skills: Not Applicable Driver's License: A driver's license is not required for this position. More About This Job WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Education

No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting. Certifications/Professional Licenses: No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting. Work

Experience

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting. Skills: Not Applicable Questions For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ. Accommodation If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request. All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. Pre-Employment Screening All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits

Statement Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees.

Benefits

eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits. EEO Statement Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship (where prohibited by federal law), age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. Q: Can I create a job alert to notify me when jobs of interest are posted? A: Yes! After you create a Candidate Home account, you can set up and manage job alerts to be sent to you either daily or weekly, according to the filters you select. You can add, edit, or delete job alerts at any time. You will need to opt in to communications from WashU when you set up your first alert and will only receive alerts for jobs posted after the alert has been created. Set alerts today so you do not miss any new opportunities! Washington University in St. Louis' collective success is significantly attributed to the passion and outstanding efforts of our community. Our staff, faculty and trainees are committed to excellence and dedicated to carrying out our missions of research, teaching and patient care. WashU prides itself on being a place where people matter, and serious work is done. Our people work together in an inclusive community that celebrates diverse perspectives, collaboration and innovation. We are a community of individuals inspired to work together to develop big ideas and tackle challenging problems. We value the well-being of our people. WashU strives to create a positive employee experience where staff, faculty and trainees thrive, both personally and professionally. Our employees find meaning, connection and vitality in their work and life with a healthy work-life balance and support to learn, grow and make an impact at WashU, the community and the world. Useful Links Who We Are Human Resources

Benefits

Living in St. Louis Frequently Asked Questions Accommodation If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request. Regulatory Postings Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal Poster (English; Spanish)