The Department of Chemistry at the University of Pittsburgh invites applications for a full-time Visiting Research Assistant Professor to lead and conduct research on the chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect. The successful candidate will work closely with Professor Haitao Liu and his research group to investigate how molecular chirality governs spin-dependent electron transport and reactivity at surfaces and interfaces, with applications spanning spintronics, enantioselective electrochemistry and catalysis, and spin-controlled processes in molecular and biomolecular systems.
Primary Responsibilities
- Design, execute, and interpret experiments probing spin-polarized charge transport through chiral molecules, self-assembled monolayers, and chiral thin films.
- Develop and apply surface- and interface-sensitive measurements relevant to CISS, which may include magnetoresistance and spin-dependent transport measurements, electrochemical methods (cyclic voltammetry, EIS, chronoamperometry), spin-polarized or magnetic-field-modulated electrochemistry, and characterization by AFM, XPS, QCM/QCM-D, ellipsometry, and related techniques.
- Prepare and characterize chiral molecular assemblies and substrates, including DNA-based and other biomolecular chiral systems where relevant.
- Author peer-reviewed publications and contribute to conference presentations and dissemination of results.
- Contribute to the preparation of grant proposals and reports to federal agencies and other sponsors.
- Mentor and train graduate and undergraduate researchers, and help maintain shared instrumentation and safe laboratory practices.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related field.
- Demonstrated research experience relevant to CISS, spin-dependent phenomena, electrochemistry, surface science, or molecular electronics, evidenced by a strong publication record.
- Hands-on expertise with one or more relevant experimental platforms (e.g., electrochemistry, surface characterization, magnetotransport, or spin-sensitive measurements).
- Ability to work independently, design rigorous experiments, and communicate results effectively in writing and in presentations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience measuring or modeling the CISS effect or spin-polarized transport in molecular and solid state systems.
- Familiarity with chiral self-assembled monolayers, DNA nanostructures, or chiral inorganic/hybrid materials.
- Experience with instrument development, automation, or custom measurement setups.
- A record of successful collaboration across chemistry, physics, and materials science.
- Contributions to grant writing and evidence of emerging research independence.
Appointment Terms
This is a full-time, visiting research assistant professor appointment, the initial appointment term will be 1 year, with renewal contingent on performance and the availability of funding.
The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer.
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