Faculty.Professor.Visiting Research Assistant

University of Pittsburgh

  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • 9 days ago

    Highlights

    The successful candidate will work closely with Professor Haitao Liu and his research group to investigate how molecular chirality governs spin-dependent electron transport and reactivity at surfaces and interfaces, with applications spanning spintronics, enantioselective electrochemistry and catalysis, and spin-controlled processes in molecular and biomolecular systems. Develop and apply surface- and interface-sensitive measurements relevant to CISS, which may include magnetoresistance and spin-dependent transport measurements, electrochemical methods (cyclic voltammetry, EIS, chronoamperometry), spin-polarized or magnetic-field-modulated electrochemistry, and characterization by AFM, XPS, QCM/QCM-D, ellipsometry, and related techniques.

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationPittsburgh, PA

    Description

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    The Department of Chemistry at the University of Pittsburgh invites applications for a full-time Visiting Research Assistant Professor to lead and conduct research on the chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect. The successful candidate will work closely with Professor Haitao Liu and his research group to investigate how molecular chirality governs spin-dependent electron transport and reactivity at surfaces and interfaces, with applications spanning spintronics, enantioselective electrochemistry and catalysis, and spin-controlled processes in molecular and biomolecular systems.

    Primary Responsibilities

    • Design, execute, and interpret experiments probing spin-polarized charge transport through chiral molecules, self-assembled monolayers, and chiral thin films.
    • Develop and apply surface- and interface-sensitive measurements relevant to CISS, which may include magnetoresistance and spin-dependent transport measurements, electrochemical methods (cyclic voltammetry, EIS, chronoamperometry), spin-polarized or magnetic-field-modulated electrochemistry, and characterization by AFM, XPS, QCM/QCM-D, ellipsometry, and related techniques.
    • Prepare and characterize chiral molecular assemblies and substrates, including DNA-based and other biomolecular chiral systems where relevant.
    • Author peer-reviewed publications and contribute to conference presentations and dissemination of results.
    • Contribute to the preparation of grant proposals and reports to federal agencies and other sponsors.
    • Mentor and train graduate and undergraduate researchers, and help maintain shared instrumentation and safe laboratory practices.

    Required Qualifications

    • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
    • Demonstrated research experience relevant to CISS, spin-dependent phenomena, electrochemistry, surface science, or molecular electronics, evidenced by a strong publication record.
    • Hands-on expertise with one or more relevant experimental platforms (e.g., electrochemistry, surface characterization, magnetotransport, or spin-sensitive measurements).
    • Ability to work independently, design rigorous experiments, and communicate results effectively in writing and in presentations.

    Preferred Qualifications

    • Direct experience measuring or modeling the CISS effect or spin-polarized transport in molecular and solid state systems.
    • Familiarity with chiral self-assembled monolayers, DNA nanostructures, or chiral inorganic/hybrid materials.
    • Experience with instrument development, automation, or custom measurement setups.
    • A record of successful collaboration across chemistry, physics, and materials science.
    • Contributions to grant writing and evidence of emerging research independence.

    Appointment Terms

    This is a full-time, visiting research assistant professor appointment, the initial appointment term will be 1 year, with renewal contingent on performance and the availability of funding.

    The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer.

    '',''!*!

    Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests and experience (2-3 pages), and the names and contact information of three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

    '',''!*!

    The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.

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