Associate Research Engineer/CAER

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky's 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 high-value graphitic products. The successful candidate(s) will focus on fiber spinning trials and comprehensive characterization of materials.

Beyond processing, the role involves collaborative work with research teams and collaborators, applying advanced materials characterization techniques and

Qualifications

• 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 processing; knowledge of fiber and carbon materials characterization; ability to record and keep accurate records and data; ability to draft research manuscripts for publication.

Responsibilities

• Fiber spinning process trials (solution and melt spinning) to produce high-quality fiber and thermal conversion of fibers 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.

Skills

Fiber & carbon materials processing

Materials characterization

Data recording & documentation

Research writing & presentations

Job description

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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

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.

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

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

Deadline to Apply

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.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Optional Documents

• Curriculum Vita