Associate Research Engineer/CAER

University of Kentucky; Kentucky; On-site; USD 53,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky invites applications for an Associate Research Engineer/CAER in Lexington, KY. The role focuses on advanced materials development, with fiber spinning, materials characterization, and graphitic materials processing for energy storage.

Ideal candidates have MS-level education and a strong track record in materials engineering, with collaboration across CAER labs. This staff position emphasizes safety, teamwork, and data-driven research in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in materials or chemical engineering or related field.
• Record of research and ability to publish/manuscripts for publication.
• Strong teamwork, adaptability, initiative and safety priority.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fiber spinning trials (solution and melt) to produce high-quality fiber.
• Characterize materials systematically and completely.
• Process coal by liquefaction and heat treatment for high-value graphitic materials.
• Process and characterize isotropic and mesophase pitch.
• Advance graphitic materials in energy storage and battery-related analyses.

Skills

Fiber materials

Carbon materials

Materials characterization

Data recording

Research writing

Education

MS

Tools

SEM

X-ray scattering

TGA/MS

DSC

DMA

XPS

Job description

Posting Details

Job Title Associate Research Engineer/CAER

Requisition Number RE55585

Working Title

Department Name 40550:Ctr For Applied Energy Res

Work Location Lexington, KY

Grade Level 46

Salary Range $53,061-87,526/year

Type of Position Staff

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education MS

Click here for more information about equivalencies: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

Required Related Experience No experience required.

Required License/Registration/Certification None

Physical Requirements Standing or walking with objects up to 25lbs; Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods; Repetitive motion tasks; Job-related travel

Shift Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., occasional evenings and weekends.

Job Summary

• 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.

Skills/Knowledge/Abilities

Independent, disciplined researchers with a strong publication and presentation track record are preferred. Experience in independently conducting publication-quality research expediently is a critical component. Specific skills that are desired include:

• Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials and composites processing


• Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials characterization


• The ability to record and keep accurate records and data


• Knowledge of the form and style of research writing and presentation, including reporting to federal sponsors and drafting research manuscripts for publication

Internal Employees Being Considered

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply 09/30/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.

The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.

Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.