Position Overview
Dr. Huazhen Fang's research group at the University of Kansas invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Battery Energy Storage Systems and Control. This position, supported by Department of Energy grants, focuses on advancing the integration of lithium-ion batteries with power electronics and AI. The selected candidate will perform and lead cutting-edge research on advanced battery system architectures, optimal power management strategies, and second-life batteries for emerging sustainability applications. The candidate will play a key role in driving energy-transition-related research at the University of Kansas for national and global excellence. The position offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with faculty and industry partners across institutions towards unlocking innovation solutions for future energy storage and sustainability.

The preferred start date is February 1, 2025, with the exact date negotiable. This is a 1-year appointment with possible reappointment based on performance and funding availability.

Job Description
80% Research

• Lead and conduct research projects.
• Lead interdisciplinary work with collaborators from across academia and industry.
• Conduct research, perform experiments, analyze data, and prepare journal papers.
• Assist in research mentoring and supervision of graduate and undergraduate students.
• Lead and assist in the preparation of research proposals.

20% - Reporting and Dissemination of Research

• Prepare and present updates on research projects.
• Present findings in seminars and conferences.
• Assist in the preparation of research reports.
• Participate in group meetings.

Position Requirements

1. This position is required to work on-site.

Required Qualifications

1. A recent Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or closely related field by the date of appointment.
2. Excellent record of scholarly accomplishments including publications and technical presentations in energy storage, power electronics, AI or related subjects, as evidenced by application materials.
3. Demonstrated communication (verbal and written) and leadership skills, as demostrated by application materials.

Candidates will be evaluated on their research experience and communication skills, as evidenced by: (i) CV and cover letter, (ii) 2-page research statement, (iii) prior research publications, (iv) names of three referees, and (v) interview by videoconference.

NOTE: To be appointed at the Postdoctoral Researcher title, it is necessary to have the PhD conferred at the time of hire. Appointments made without a diploma or certified transcript indicating an earned doctorate are conditional hires and are appointed on an interim basis not to exceed 6-months. Upon verification of degree the appointment will be extended to its full duration.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experimental skills in batteries and power electronics, as demonstrated by application materials.
2. Knowledge of machine learning, as demonstrated by application materials.
3. Record of research proposal development, as demonstrated by application materials.

Contact Information to Applicants
Huazhen Fang, fang@ku.edu, 785-864-8126
Additional Candidate Instruction
A complete application includes:

1. Resume or curriculum vitae
2. Cover letter addressing how the required and, if applicable, preferred qualifications are met.
3. Contact information of 3 professional references.
4. 2 page research statement

Initial review begins on 12/26/24. To ensure consideration, please apply no later than 12/25/24.
Advertised Salary Range
$59,000
Application Review Begins
26-Dec-2024
Anticipated Start Date
03-Feb-2025
Primary Campus
University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
FTE
1.0
Reg/Temp
Regular
FLSA Status
Professional
Employee Class
U-Unclassified Professional Staff
Work Location Assignment
On-Site
Disclaimer
The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY.