Research Associate 3

The Research Associate 3 supports computational research in the PES Romagnoli Group focused on electrochemical systems and novel energy-storage devices. Under the guidance of the principal investigator and established research objectives, the position assists with developing, implementing, and evaluating physics-based and data-driven models using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), finite element methods (FEM), density functional theory (DFT), and molecular-scale simulations. The Research Associate 3 conducts computational analyses to investigate ion transport, electrochemical reactions, material selectivity, and interfacial behavior; assists with troubleshooting modeling approaches; and contributes to the interpretation and documentation of results. The position works collaboratively with the principal investigator, research team, and external partners to support research activities, project milestones, and deliverables related to membranes, electrodes, and electrochemical technologies.

35% Assist with developing, executing, and evaluating computational models of electrochemical and energy-storage systems, including CFD, FEM, DFT, and molecular-scale approaches, under the guidance of the principal investigator. Conduct analyses and contribute to understanding relationships among electronic structure, material properties, ion transport, and device-level performance.

25% Assist with computer-based analyses of research data and the development, adaptation, and validation of scientific code and simulation workflows under the guidance of the principal investigator or senior research team members. Help troubleshoot numerical and computational problems, evaluate model accuracy, and contribute to identifying appropriate methods and potential refinements.

20% Assist with coordinating assigned computational research activities, maintaining organized simulation inputs, datasets, and documentation, and tracking progress toward project objectives, timelines, and deliverables under the guidance of the principal investigator. Communicate technical results, progress updates, and research-related issues to the principal investigator and collaborators.

15% Assist with interpreting and summarizing computational findings and preparing figures, technical reports, manuscript drafts, presentations, and materials to support research proposals under the guidance of the principal investigator. Collaborate with research group members and external partners to support ongoing research activities and contribute to discussions of modeling approaches as needed.

5% Other duties as assigned; Ongoing training and professional development

Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Computational Science, or a closely related field or Bachelor's degree and 2 years of experience

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University’s partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university’s ability to employ individuals in certain positions.