Position Function:
Join a highly active lab developing next-generation optical spectroscopic instrumentation, with emphasis on linearly and circularly polarized techniques. The postdoc will lead experimental development and work closely with academic and industrial collaborators, including on technology commercialization.
Salary Grade: UC
For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
For information on the Department of Chemistry, please visit www.chemistry.msstate.edu
Area of Specialization:
Chemistry
Anticipated Appointment Date:
February 1, 2026
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Develop and optimize advanced optical spectroscopic instruments
• Collaborate with internal team members and external partners
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students
• Contribute to technology translation and commercialization activities
Minimum Qualifications:
• Ph.D. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computational Science and Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related field (completed by start date)
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience in optical spectroscopic instrumentation (design, construction, implementation)
• Proficiency in LabVIEW and/or Python for instrument control and data acquisition (e.g., monochromators, PMTs/CCDs, motorized stages, lock-in amplifiers, DAQ systems)
• Strong communication and teamwork skills; ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary environment
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Regularly involves lifting and bending. Often exposed to one or more elements such as heat, cold, noise, dust, dirt, chemicals, etc.
Instructions for Applying:
Interested candidates must apply msujobs.msstate.edu and submit the following materials:
1. Cover Letter
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV), including a full list of publications.
3. Three most relevant publications.
4. A one-page statement of research interests.
5. Contact information for three references.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.