Associate Research Scientist/CAER

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Carbon Materials Group at the University of Kentucky is seeking one or more Associate Research Scientist to advance high-value graphitic materials and fiber-based products. Candidates will join a collaborative research team and contribute to cutting-edge materials research, safety, and publication efforts.

PhD preferred with strong teamwork, adaptability, and initiative. The role emphasizes experimental work, characterization, and reporting results to CAER and federal sponsors.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials research
• Experience in recording and presenting research data
• Ability to write and present research manuscripts for publication
• Ability to work with federal sponsors and report progress

Responsibilities

• Conduct fiber spinning trials (solution/melt) to produce high-quality fiber and carbon fibers
• Characterize materials using SEM, XPS, TGA/MS, DSC, DMA, and related techniques
• Process coal by liquefaction and heat treatment to create high-value graphitic materials
• Advance isotropic and mesophase pitch processing and characterization for energy storage materials

Skills

Fiber materials processing

Materials characterization

Record keeping

Research writing

Education

PhD preferred

Job description

Required License/Registration/Certification

None

Physical Requirements

Lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 lbs.

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. occasional nights and weekends.

Job Summary

The Carbon Materials Group is looking to hire one or more Associate Research Scientist 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.

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

IEBC (Internal Employee Being Considered).

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

No

Preferred Education/Experience

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