Associate Research Engineer

University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research invites applications for Associate Research Engineer positions in the Carbon Materials Group. You will conduct high-quality research focused on fiber materials and high-value graphitic products, joining a collaborative team of scientists and engineers.

Responsibilities include spinning, materials characterization, and processing of graphitic materials with emphasis on energy storage applications and battery-related analyses.

Qualifications

• PhD preferred in materials, chemical engineering or related field.
• Strong background in materials characterization and safety.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively across CAER laboratories.

Responsibilities

• Lead fiber spinning trials (solution and melt) to develop high-quality fibers.
• Characterize materials using SEM, X-ray scattering, TGA/MS, DSC, DMA, and related tools.
• Process coal via liquefaction and heat treatment for high-value graphitic materials.
• Draft research reports and manuscripts; collaborate with team and external partners.

Skills

Fiber spinning

Materials characterization

Graphitic materials processing

Battery cell fabrication

Education

PhD preferred

Tools

SEM

XPS

TGA/MS

DSC

DMA

LFA

Single filament tensile testing

Job description

The Carbon Materials Group is looking to hire one or more Associate Research Engineers to conduct high-quality research with emphasis on a range of fiber materials and on high-value graphitic products. The successful candidate(s) will be a key team member with primary responsibilities focused on one or more of the following:

• Fiber spinning process trials (solution and melt spinning) to produce high-quality fiber & thermal conversion of fibers (i.e. to carbon fibers)
• Systematic and complete characterization of materials
• Utilization and processing of coal by liquefaction and heat treatment methods for high-value graphitic materials, including synthetic graphite
• Isotropic and mesophase pitch processing and characterization
• Advancement of new graphitic materials in energy storage with familiarity in battery cell fabrication and cycling.

In addition to materials processing, the successful candidate(s) will work closely within the respective team, and with the research group and collaborators, conducting a variety of materials characterization techniques including polarized optical microscopy, SEM, x-ray scattering, gas pycnometry, TGA/MS, DSC, DMA, Mettler DP, LFA thermal diffusivity, single filament tensile testing, dilatometry for CTE, battery cell fabrication & cycling analyses, XPS, and several additional chemical, structural, mechanical, thermal and electrical property analyses of experimental materials.

Applicants for the position will preferably have advanced education (PhD preferred) and experience in materials or chemical engineering (or related), and high priority for safety. Additionally, preferred applicants will have strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated record of teamwork, adaptability, innovation, and initiative; and the ability to work well with all levels of personnel throughout CAER’s laboratories. A reliable and dedicated work ethic is expected and required. Drafting of research reports and manuscripts for publication will be part of the job.