Job Description

Job Summary:
Professor Zhan Chen’s laboratory at the University of Michigan is currently recruiting for a postdoctoral research fellow position in the Department of Chemistry. This is a one-year appointment starting no later than September 30, 2026. The initial appointment as a Research Fellow is for one year with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon satisfactory performance, availability of work and the availability of funding. The research in Prof. Chen’s lab is focused on molecular level studies on complex surfaces/interfaces such as polymer and biological interfaces using nonlinear optical spectroscopic techniques. The Chen group has published journal articles extensively on studies of surfaces and interfaces using sum frequency generation (SFG) spectroscopy, supplemented by a variety of analytical tools. The research covers both fundamental studies and collaborations with industry. To read more about the groundbreaking research conducted in the Zhan Chen laboratory click here: Chen Lab (https://public.websites.umich.edu/~chenlab/).

Job Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will carry out SFG and other spectroscopic studies on molecular structures and interactions at interfaces involving biological molecules, polymer materials, organic molecules, metals, or semiconductors. The postdoc will also be involved in the research related to interfacial dynamics using ultrafast pump-probe SFG studies. The postdoc is expected to perform both independent and collaborative research (with group members and industrial partners), publish peer reviewed research articles, present research data to the industrial collaborators, and write technical reports.

Required Qualifications:
PhD in Physics, Physical Chemistry, Laser Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field is required. Proof of degree confirmation must be in hand on or before the start date.

Desired Qualifications:
Extensive research experience and background in all or some of the following areas: molecular spectroscopy, lasers (solid-state lasers), nonlinear optical systems (second harmonic, sum frequency generation etc.), ultrafast spectroscopy, etc. The ideal candidate will be a conscientious, responsible person who is interested in being a member of a team of postdoctoral fellows, graduate and undergraduate students; have excellent organizational skills and can communicate effectively with a wide-range of people with various backgrounds. The ideal candidate will also have a strong record of publications. Postdoctoral Research Fellows in the Chen laboratory expected to assume leadership of their projects and mentor graduates students and undergraduates working alongside them to answer questions and communicate findings.

Mode of Work:
The work requires a fully onsite presence at the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor Campus).

Background Screening:
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Contact Information:
Please direct any questions to [email protected]

U-M EEO/AA Statement:
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

How to Apply: To apply, please submit the following application materials no later than August 31, 2026 to [email protected]:
• A cover letter that summarizes the candidate's experience and a brief description of research interests and experience
• CV, including a list of publications
• Contact information for three references