Fellow (Post Doc)

The Kansas State University Department of Grain and Food Science is seeking applicants for a post-doc postion in the area of innovative manufacturing.

  • 520941
  • Manhattan, Kansas, United States
  • Grain Science & Industry
  • Staff Full Time (Unclassified - Term)
  • Closing at: Jan 30 2026 - 23:55 CST
  • On-site
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About This Role

This position focuses on developing biodegradable and food-safe polymers, composites, and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for nutrient delivery and sustainable packaging. The successful candidate will design and characterize novel materials to advance the laboratory’s vision of “Food as Medicine.”

About Us

The department strives to provide high-quality education, foster innovation in grains and food science research, and build strong industry partnerships to meet the evolving needs of global food systems.
Our expert faculty includes several current and former Grain and Food Science members ranked among the world’s top 2% of researchers, according to a 2020 Stanford University study.
For over 110 years, Kansas State University has been a global leader in flour milling and industry-focused education. Since 1951, it has remained one of the few institutions worldwide to offer four-year bachelor's degrees in Bakery Science and Management, Feed and Pet Food Science, Food Science and Milling Science and Management.
Our internationally recognized graduate program also offers diverse opportunities for applied and basic research leading to master's or doctoral degrees in Grain Science.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Science, Food Science, or a closely related discipline. The degree requirement is necessary to ensure candidates possess the specialized knowledge, skills and abilities that can only be attained through a formal educational program at this level.
  • Hands-on research experience in polymer synthesis, characterization, or functional materials

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with biodegradable polymers or MOF-based systems.
  • Background in food-compatible materials or structure–property analysis.
  • Demonstrated record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
  • Ability to conduct independent, self-motivated research with a solid background in emulsion science.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter
2. Resume or CV
3. Contact information for three professional references

Application Window

Applications close on: January 30, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$47,476 to $65,000

 

 

Why Join Us:

Kansas State University offers a supportive and inclusive community, dedicated to your professional growth. While specific benefits may vary by position, many roles come with comprehensive packages that support your well-being and work-life balance, including health and life insurance, retirement plans, and generous paid time off. To learn more about benefits that are available for various positions, visit our benefits overview page.

Work Authorization: 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at the time of employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Kansas State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Remote and Hybrid work options:

Some positions are eligible for remote or hybrid working arrangements.  An employee who is working in a remote or hybrid capacity for K-State must reside within the United States in order to comply with all federal and state laws, filings, or tax requirements. Remote and hybrid work arrangements are not available for anyone who resides in the state of Idaho.

Relocation to Kansas: 

Kansas participates in the MakeMyMove program, which connects eligible newcomers with participating communities offering financial incentives, housing support, and local perks to help make your move easier and more rewarding. If relocating you can visit the site apply online for the program incentives. 

Background Screening Statement:

Upon acceptance of a contingent offer of employment, a candidate may be subject to a background check per K-State’s background check policy.

Interview Preferences:

Kansas State University honors interview preferences for qualified applicants who are veterans or individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, submit all required application materials, and submit required preference documentation by the closing date on the job advertisement will be granted a first-level interview.

The disability and veteran interview preferences do not apply to student employment positions, temporary positions, athletics positions, academic and administrative department heads*, positions that require licensure as a physician, and positions that require that the employee be admitted to practice law in Kansas.

*Heads of Departments refers to any individual holding a primary leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction, management and operational oversight of a recognized academic or administrative unit within the university.

To learn more about interview preferences at K-State, please visit our interview preferences page.