Postdoctoral Fellow in Computational Chemistry, September 2025

Dr. Vincent Esposito's research group in the Schmid College of Science and Technology at Chapman University seeks a postdoctoral fellow of computational chemistry, beginning September 2025.

Chapman University is a nationally ranked, R2 Carnegie Classified, private institution offering traditional undergraduate and graduate programs in the heart of Orange County, one of Southern Californias most diverse and vibrant regions. Chapmans campuses are home to nearly 10,000 students representing 50 states, 3 territories, and 78 countries. The 11 schools and colleges of Chapman offer 65 bachelors, 53 master, and 6 doctoral programs, along with 60 minors and 17 integrated and bridge programs. Dedicated to forward-looking, personalized education, we create an environment for unlimited achievement by both our students and faculty.

Responsibilities

The overall focus of the position will be computational astrochemistry, with multiple projects available to work on. Projects include:

1) Anharmonic absorption and emission spectra of unsubstituted and substituted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

2) Spectroscopy and photochemistry of small organic and metal-bearing astronomical molecules

3) Chemistry relevant to Titans atmosphere

In addition to these project options, candidates are highly encouraged to pursue their own research ideas in collaboration with Dr. Esposito. A list of publications relevant to this work can be found here .

A Ph.D. in computational/theoretical physical chemistry is required.

Desired qualifications include: In-depth experience with ab-initio quantum chemical methods as applied to rotational, vibrational, and electronic spectroscopy, reaction mechanisms and photochemistry, experience writing peer-reviewed manuscripts independently, and programming skills. A highly motivated, committed, and enthusiastic candidate lacking experience in any of these areas encouraged to apply as this postdoctoral position is designed to be flexible around both the candidates and groups ideas.

Interested applicants should submit the following documents via Interfolio:

Curriculum Vitae

Contact information for three references

Please address any questions to Dr. Vincent Esposito ( ... ).

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The salary for the position is $68,640 and the selected candidate will be eligible for full employee benefits. This position is contingent on final budget approval. Successful completion of a background check is required for the final candidate.

Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics. All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.