Chemistry & Biochemistry Department – Carlini Group

If you’re passionate about advanced polymer research and want to work at the cutting edge of chemical sciences, here’s a fantastic opportunity from one of the world’s top universities.

The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) is currently hiring a full-time Assistant Project Scientist to contribute independently to high-impact research. This role focuses on NITEC click chemistry, stimuli-responsive polymers, and smart device fabrication.

About the Role

In this position, you will lead and support research projects involving:

• Synthesis of bio-functional polymers using ROMP, RAFT, ATRP techniques

• Development of light- and ONOO-responsive materials such as hydrogels, nanoparticles, and smart devices

• Guiding lab members and collaborators on NITEC-related chemistry workflows

• Contributing to publications and the mentorship of students

This role is ideal for scientists who enjoy hands-on lab work, innovation in smart materials, and collaborative research environments.

Who Should Apply?

This position requires a PhD (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Biomedical Engineering, or any related STEM field.

Essential Experience:

• 4+ years in controlled polymerization techniques (especially ROMP)

• Strong background in organic synthesis and spectroscopy (UV-Vis, plate readers)

• Experience with polymer characterization (SEC-MALS, DLS)

• Skilled in analytical chromatography and mass spectrometry (HPLC, LCMS, MALDI)

• 6+ months working with cell viability assays

Preferred Skills:

• Computational skills (MATLAB, Python, etc.)

• Experience with TEM imaging

• Proven student mentorship and scientific writing skills