Postdoctoral Research Scholar – Green Bioproducts

Hiring Organization: Department of Forestry Michigan State University
Employment type: Full-Time
Job Location: East Lansing, MI
Application Due Date: March 2, 2026

Position description

The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scholar to develop lignin-based bioproducts. The researcher will be working on multiple research projects under the supervision of Dr. Mojgan Nejad. The candidate will be required to conduct biopolymer characterization, resin formulation, performance evaluation, and write technical project reports and journal papers. These multidisciplinary projects are conducted in close collaboration with multiple industry partners, and the individual will have the opportunity to interact regularly with industry scientists. The researcher is expected to mentor undergraduate students in the lab and provide the required lab and safety training. The position will begin as a one-year appointment, with extension available depending on satisfactory performance and continued funding.

Required qualifications

The successful candidate must have an earned PhD in polymer chemistry, organic chemistry, or polymer engineering by the start date of the position. Additional beneficial qualifications include knowledge of lignin chemistry and lignin-based bioproduct developments such as adhesives, coatings, or foams; demonstrated ability to work with advanced analytical techniques such as NMR, FTIR, DSC, TGA, DMA, GPC, and Rheometer; expertise in multivariate data analysis; previous project management experience; and exceptional work ethic and professionalism.

Location

The position will be based at Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI, USA.

To Apply

Submit your application online by midnight (US Eastern Time) on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Upload the following required documents: 1) a letter of interest detailing qualifications for the position (1-page max), 2) curriculum vitae, and 3) three professional references with contact information (institution, email address, phone number). Incomplete applications will not be considered, and individuals selected for an interview will be contacted by email in March 2026.

Application deadline

Review of applications will begin on March 2, 2026. The desired start date is April 1, 2026, only applicants who already have valid authorization to work in the United States are eligible to apply. Questions about the position should be directed to Dr. Nejad at nejad@msu.edu.

MSU is an equal opportunity employer and the MSU Department of Forestry is committed to promoting diversity in research. We actively encourage applications from, and nominations of, women, persons of color, veterans, persons with disabilities and other individuals who can contribute to the intellectual diversity and cultural richness at Michigan State University. MSU is committed to providing a work environment that supports employees’ work and personal life, and offers employment assistance to the spouse or partner of candidates for faculty and academic staff positions.

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