The Department of Chemistry at Tennessee Technological University (TN Tech) invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position (9 month contract) in Radiochemistry beginning August 2022. A Ph.D. in radiochemistry, or closely related area (inorganic or analytical chemistry, preferred) from an accredited institution with research interests, training, and experience in the use of radioisotopes to study chemical phenomena is required. Postdoctoral experience is required. TN Tech University is a comprehensive institution of higher education with particular strengths in science and engineering situated in the beautiful Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee in between Nashville and Knoxville. A low cost of living, no state income tax, and numerous outdoor activities within a short driving distance contribute to a high quality of life in this growing area. The department confers an ACS-certified B.S. and M.S. in chemistry and participates in the interdisciplinary Ph.D. program in Environmental Sciences. A detailed description of the department of chemistry, the Environmental Science Ph.D. Program, and the university is available at: https://www.tntech.edu/cas/chemistry/
The applicant will be expected to establish and sustain a research program involving both undergraduate and graduate students that complements existing research efforts of the department, including liquid-liquid separations of relevant isotopes from simulated spent nuclear fuel, while vigorously pursuing external support. Competitive startup funds to initiate experiential research with TN Tech students are available. The department strongly encourages interaction with Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the candidate’s area of interest. Teaching expectations are proposed to be at the undergraduate and graduate level depending on the successful candidate’s background and expertise and could include responsibility for instruction in general, analytical, or inorganic chemistry, in addition to teaching the dual-listed course in radiochemistry, including the associated laboratory, biennially. The successful candidate will also be expected to effectively participate in service activities at the department and/or university level as assigned, in addition to serving the university as the campus radiation safety officer.
The department has recently relocated to a new interdisciplinary laboratory science facility for research and teaching which includes 1200 ft2 of dedicated space for radiochemistry research. Extensive investment in instrumentation for research has well positioned the university for expanded outcomes in research. Recent acquisitions relevant to the position include a 500 MHz NMR spectrometer with broad-band N2 cryoprobe, liquid scintillation counter, γ-counter, UV-vis fluorimeter, ICP-MS, and ICP-OES. The department maintains a TN Radioactive Material License which allows the use of a wide variety of β / γ-emitting isotopes, as well as smaller quantities of certain α emitters for teaching and research.
The complete position summary is available at: https:// jobs.tntech.edu/. All applications must be submitted online. A completed application will consist of a letter of application, statement of research interests (limited to 5 pages) which includes estimated startup costs, teaching philosophy statement (limited to 2 pages), a curriculum vita, copies of all transcripts for which a degree was conferred, and the names and email addresses of three professional references who will be contacted to submit a letter of support on behalf of the applicant.
Questions should be directed to Dr. Jesse D. Carrick, Chair of the Radiochemistry Search Committee, email: jcarrick@tntech.edu. For full consideration, completed applications should be received in advance of October 15, 2021. Selected candidates will be requested to interview in person, and on campus commensurate with state of TN and Federal COVID-19 guidelines. TN Tech University is an AA/EEO employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex, disability, age (40 and over), status as a protected veteran, genetic information or any other category protected by federal or state law. Inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies should be directed to equity@tntech.edu.