Lab Assistant - Materials Science and Engineering

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The J.A. Robinson Research Group at Penn State University seeks a motivated individual for a wage payroll position focused on synthesizing and characterizing 2D materials. This role offers hands-on experience with advanced research tools in a dynamic environment committed to innovation in nanomaterials.

Qualifications

• Experience with thin film growth preferred.
• Prior lab experience with synthesis tools a plus.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Assist in synthesis of 2D materials using MOCVD systems.
• Perform characterization of materials using advanced tools.
• Maintain laboratory records and contribute to planning.

Skills

Attention to detail

Willingness to learn

Teamwork

Education

Undergraduate or graduate-level coursework in materials science, physics, chemistry, or electrical engineering

Tools

Raman spectroscopy

Atomic Force Microscopy

Scanning Electron Microscopy

Photoluminescence spectroscopy

Vacuum systems

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The J.A. Robinson Research Group at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual for a wage payroll position focused on the synthesis and characterization of two-dimensional (2D) materials. This role provides hands-on experience with advanced research tools in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment committed to innovation in nanomaterials and quantum technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the synthesis of 2D materials using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) systems.
• Perform routine and advanced characterization of 2D materials, including:
• Raman spectroscopy for vibrational mode analysis
• Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) for topographical measurements
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for imaging and morphology
• Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy for optical property analysis
• Maintain laboratory records and contribute to experimental planning and troubleshooting.
• .Follow safety protocols and cleanroom best practices

Qualifications

• Undergraduate or graduate-level coursework or experience in materials science, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• Familiarity with thin film growth, vacuum systems, or nanomaterials is preferred.
• Prior lab experience with any of the listed synthesis or characterization tools is a plus, but on-the-job training will be provided.
• Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Compensation:

The starting rate for this job is $15/hour

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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