Postdoctoral Research Associate – Patton Lab

Postdoctoral Research Associate – Patton Lab

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate – Patton Lab.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Complete applications require a 1) cover letter summarizing the candidate’s research experience and interest in the position, 2) a curriculum vitae and 3) contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position has been filled.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary
The Postdoctoral Research Associate will conduct and lead research on sustainable polymer materials within the Patton Lab at The University of Southern Mississippi’s School of Polymer Science and Engineering. This position integrates fundamental polymer materials research with translational and innovation-focused activities to support the advancement of emerging technologies. The role centers on evaluating and advancing polymer materials for applications in sustainability and real-world use, contributing to the lab’s overall research mission. The position operates within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment and supports the broader goals of innovation, research translation, and academic excellence. This is a full-time, 12-month appointment, with continuation contingent upon the availability of external funding.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research on sustainable polymer materials, including design, synthesis, processing, and evaluation.
• Establish relationships between structure, properties, and performance using appropriate analytical, thermal, and mechanical characterization methods.
• Advance research toward translational readiness by identifying application requirements, performance benchmarks, and scalability considerations.
• Identify intellectual property and prepare invention disclosures, while participating in feasibility assessments and gap analysis.
• Prepare technical reports, peer reviewed publications, and presentations to communicate research findings and innovation outcomes.
• Collaborate with academic and external partners to support research initiatives and expand project impact.
• Mentor and train graduate and undergraduate researchers, support laboratory operations, and ensure compliance with research ethics and environmental health and safety standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Doctoral Degree from an accredited college or university in Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related field. Dissertation must be defended and approved, and all degree requirements must be met prior to the start of the position. Two (2) years of experience with multi-step organic and polymer synthesis, purification, monomer and polymer characterization, and related polymer laboratory techniques.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of polymer chemistry, polymer characterization, and polymer processing techniques
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills in experimental research
• Strong written and oral scientific communication skills, including preparation of manuscripts, technical reports, and presentations
• Ability to review and edit manuscript drafts and produce publication-quality writing
• Ability to organize, document, and manage experimental data to research-grade standards
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team and contribute to a collaborative and supportive laboratory culture
• Commitment to mentorship, training, and professional development of junior researchers

Preferred Qualifications
Two (2) years of experience with polymer processing or fabrication techniques used to prepare polymer materials for characterization and performance testing. Two (2) years of experience preparing or contributing to peer-reviewed manuscripts, grant proposals, or conference presentations.

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.