Senior Research Scientist - Lignin Valorization & Catalytic Depolymerization

The Bioproducts Institute is seeking an experienced, motivated, and collaborative Senior Research Scientist to lead and expand our lignin valorization research program. The successful candidate will spearhead scientific innovation in lignin stabilization and depolymerization, focusing on translating transformative biomass chemistry into scalable technology for sustainable bioproducts and bio-refinery systems. This role integrates fundamental research, process development, industry collaboration, and mentoring of students and junior scientists.

Organizational Status
Under the direct supervision of Prof. Orlando Rojas, this position will work in a dynamic research environment with opportunities for scientific leadership and innovation. This position will also interact frequently with industry leaders and world-class academic partners.

Work Performed

Scientific Research & Innovation:

· Lead research on lignin stabilization during biomass pretreatment to prevent condensation reactions and preserve depolymerizable structures, based on incorporating protective groups into biomass extraction workflows.

· Develop and optimize catalytic depolymerization strategies (e.g., hydrogenolysis) to produce high-selectivity monomer products from lignin feedstocks.

· Investigate the effects of extraction conditions, protection chemistries, solvent systems, and catalysts (precious and base metal catalysts) on lignin conversion, selectivity, yield, and downstream process integration.

· Characterize lignin structure and depolymerization products using advanced analytical techniques (NMR, GC-MS, LC-MS, GPC, etc.).

· Technology Development & Scale-Up

· Translate laboratory discoveries into pilot-scale process concepts and collaborate on scale-up studies.

· Analyze techno-economic and environmental performance of lignin-based valorization routes.

· Contribute to intellectual property generation (patents, disclosures) and publication of high-impact research results.

Collaboration & Leadership

· Work closely with internal teams and external partners, including academic collaborators, industrial stakeholders, and technology partners.

· Coordinate multidisciplinary research efforts integrating chemical catalysis, biomass fractionation, and process engineering.

Mentoring & Supervision

· Supervise graduate students, postdocs, and junior research staff, fostering scientific development and best laboratory practices.

· Provide technical guidance and leadership in experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific communication.

Industry Engagement

· Lead engagement with industrial partners to align research goals with practical biorefinery challenges and commercialization pathways.

· Advise on requirements for integration with existing pulp/paper or biorefinery operations and new value chains for lignin-derived platform chemicals.

Consequence of Error/Judgement
Errors in judgment with internal or external constituents could have a negative impact on the Bioproducts Institute and the University, resulting in poor public relations, financial costs, loss of credibility. Work must often meet tight deadlines and requires the incumbent to perform well under pressure. The incumbent will be expected to respond well to unexpected circumstances and exercise independent judgment. The incumbent must demonstrate exceptional public relations and interpersonal skills in dealing with industrial partners and the senior administration of the university community.

Inappropriate or errant communications of sensitive issues could have a serious impact on operations and have legal implications. Exercises judgment and initiative in handling matters of a non-routine nature requiring the interpretation of University and Faculty guidelines, procedures, and policies. Expected to exercise judgment in establishing priorities and carrying tasks through to completion in a timely manner. Reviews working procedures and implements changes where deemed appropriate.

Supervision Received
Works under minimum supervision, receiving specific instructions only on unusual problems or on matters which depart significantly from established policy and procedure.

Supervision…