Postdoctoral Scholar-Fixed Term

Position Summary

Dr. Ruigang Wang’s lab at Michigan State University has an immediate opening for a postdoc researcher to conduct fundamental research in the field of metal-sulfur battery. The goal of this work is aimed at advancing next-generation and sustainable metal-sulfur batteries through the development of high-performance electrode/electrolyte materials based on earth-abundant elements. The selected candidate will be responsible for performing battery electrode/electrolyte materials synthesis and characterization, including structural, chemical, and electrochemical analysis.

The candidate is expected to have knowledge of state-of-the-art battery materials synthesis, characterization, fundamental electrochemistry, and various battery reaction and degradation mechanisms. The candidate should be able to analyze data, prepare manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed publications, present papers at scientific meetings, and prepare reports and presentations/papers for group meetings. The candidate will carry out innovative and hands-on independent laboratory work and collaboration across groups. This position is initially for one year, renewable annually based on performance and the availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -materials science, engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry

Minimum Requirements

• Applicants must have completed a Ph.D. in materials science, chemical engineering, chemistry/electrochemistry, mechanical engineering, or related fields by the start of the position.
• The ideal candidate will have a strong materials chemistry and electrochemistry background and significant experience with the synthesis and characterization of battery materials.

Desired Qualifications

• In addition to academic training, the candidate is expected to possess excellent communication and writing skills. 
• Strong chemistry skills are desired.

Required Application Materials

• CV
• Cover letter
• Contact information for 3 references

Review of Applications Begins On

07/01/2026

Website

https://engineering.msu.edu/departments/chems

Department Statement

About The Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science at Michigan State University is recognized for excellence in research, innovation, and engineering education. The department offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs that emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, hands-on learning, and the development of solutions to complex challenges in energy, health, sustainability, manufacturing, and advanced materials.

About The College of Engineering

For more than 130 years, the MSU College of Engineering has advanced, shared, and applied engineering knowledge to address society’s most pressing challenges. Our mission is to prepare exceptional engineering graduates, conduct cutting-edge research, and drive innovation that benefits communities locally and globally.

The college pursues this mission through educational and research programs across eight departments, with interdisciplinary strengths in computational sciences, energy, health, manufacturing, materials, mobility, security, and sustainability. By fostering collaboration and discovery, the MSU College of Engineering equips students and faculty to shape the technologies and solutions of the future.

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.