Job Title:
Postdoctoral Fellow - Chemistry - Jaron Hansen Lab
Company: Brigham Young University
Location: Provo, UT
Created: 2026-04-19
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow - Chemistry - Jaron Hansen LabPosting End Date: April 21, 2026 *NOTE: Last day to apply is Monday, April 20, 2026, at 11:59pm (MST) Position Start Date: May 4, 2026Required Degree: PhD in Analytical or Physical Chemistry.The required degree must be completed by the start date.Experience: Specialized expertise in atmospheric chemistry, photochemical ozone formation, and advanced optical spectroscopy. Extensive experience using BBCEAS for the measurement of trace atmospheric species and developing concentration retrieval methods from cavity-enhanced spectroscopic data. Strong background in CE-LFMS, spectral fitting, absorption cross-section development, and instrumental calibration preferred. Demonstrated expertise in ozone photochemistry, including application of the Leighton relationship to diagnose radical chemistry and identify the role of peroxy radicals, NOx, and VOCs in ozone production. Proficient in MATLAB, Igor Pro, and atmospheric data analysis workflows for large spectral and environmental datasets. Experienced in preparing scientific publications, interpreting field observations from Utah air quality networks, and translating complex atmospheric measurements into meaningful conclusions regarding regional air quality and oxidation chemistry.Duties/Expectations: Conduct advanced atmospheric chemistry research focused on the measurement of water vapor and related trace species using Broadband Cavity-Enhanced Absorption Spectroscopy (BBCEAS) and Cavity-Enhanced Laser Frequency Modulation Spectroscopy (CE-LFMS) both in the visible and IR wavelength ranges.Responsibilities include building, calibrating, troubleshooting and operating this instrumentation as well as processing and analyzing high-resolution spectral datasets, developing and applying fitting routines for absorption cross-sections and concentration retrievals, and maintaining quality assurance protocols for field and laboratory measurements.Additional duties include conducting ozone-specific studies in Utah by applying modified forms of the Leighton relationship to investigate radical-driven photochemical processes, with particular emphasis on peroxy radical chemistry, NOx-VOC interactions, and deviations from photostationary-state behavior.This work will also involve integrating observational datasets with meteorological and radiation measurements, interpreting seasonal and diurnal ozone formation trends, and preparing technical reports, figures, and manuscripts for publication.Documents Required at the Time of Application: Please attach your updated curriculum vitae, cover letter, and Mission Alignment Statement (instructions below) to the faculty application. Note: Failure to attach the required documents may result in your application not being considered. This position requires the successful candidate to relocate and/or reside in Utah for the duration of their employment.MISSION ALIGNMENT STATEMENT INSTRUCTIONSIf you are a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:BYU is committed to hiring faculty members who enthusiastically embrace and energetically advance its unique mission. To this end, please include a one-page mission alignment statement as part of your application that addresses how you might, as a BYU faculty member: (1) live a life of loyalty to Jesus Christ and His restored Church and align yourself with doctrine and teachings declared by living prophets, seers, and revelators; (2) demonstrate intentionality in building faith in Jesus Christ and testimony of His restored gospel among students and others in the BYU community; and (3) teach your subject matter with the Spirit of God and strive to keep it "bathed in the light and color of the restored gospel" (Spencer W. Kimball).If you are not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:Applicants who are not members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints include a one-page mission alignment statement that describes understanding of and commitment to the Mission of Brigham Young University and the AIMS of a BYU Education.EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTSAll new employees who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be required to hold and be worthy to hold a current temple recommend.All faculty are required to abide by the university's Honor Code and Dress & Grooming Standards. Preference is given to qualified candidates who are members in good standing of the affiliated church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Successful candidates are expected to support and contribute to the academic and religious missions of the university within the context of the principles and doctrine of the affiliated church.EQUAL OPPORTUNITYBrigham Young University is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.