Assistant Computational Chemist / Chemical Engineer – Catalysis
Argonne National Laboratory
Lemont, IL
Job posting number: #7331492 (Ref:422667)
Posted: April 24, 2026
Job Description
The Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for a regular, full-time AssistantComputational Chemist / Chemical Engineerposition. The successful candidate will lead and contribute to computational research inelectrocatalysisandheterogeneous catalysis, working closely with experimental collaborators to advance fundamental understanding and catalyst design.
This role involves conductingmultiscale modeling,spectroscopy simulations, and the development ofmachine learning methodsandautomated workflowsformulti-fidelity, multiscale, and multiphysics simulations. The research will be closely integrated with corresponding experimental efforts.
Key Responsibilities
Perform computational studies in electrocatalysis and heterogeneous catalysis
Develop and apply multiscale modeling approaches to catalytic systems
Conduct spectroscopy simulations, including techniques such asXANES, EXAFS, and Mössbauer spectroscopy
Develop and implement machine learning methods and automated workflows for complex catalytic simulations
Collaborate closely with experimental researchers to interpret results and guide catalyst development
Contribute to proposal development and funding applications
Mentor postdoctoral researchers and graduate students
Position Requirements
Ph.D.inphysical chemistry, inorganic chemistry, computational materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field, along with3–6 years of postdoctoral research experience
Comprehensive understanding ofquantum mechanicsandcatalysis
Extensive experience inheterogeneous thermal catalysisandelectrocatalysis, including:
catalyst design
mechanistic studies
microkinetic modeling
reactor modeling
Strong computational expertise in applyingquantum mechanical methodsto determine electronic structure, catalytic properties, and reaction mechanisms
Demonstrated experience inspectroscopy simulations, includingXANES, EXAFS, and Mössbauer spectroscopy
Proficiency inPythonand relevant computational platforms
At least1–2 years of experienceadapting and implementingAI/ML methods in catalysis, including:
machine learning interatomic potentials
agentic workflows
Experience inproposal writingandfunding applications
Experience mentoringpostdoctoral researchersandgraduate students
Excellentwritten and oral communication skills
Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork
Preferred Qualifications
Experience withPGM-free oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts
Experience withCO₂ reduction catalysis
RD2: Bachelors and 5+ years of experience, Masters and 3+ years, or PhD and 0+ years, or equivalent
Job Family
Research Development (RD)Job Profile
Chemistry 2Worker Type
RegularTime Type
Full timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $94,486.00 - $147,398.94.Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.
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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.
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