Postdoctoral Research Associate in Metal Additive Manufacturing Process Development

University of Oklahoma; United States; On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Job summary

The Sooner Additive Manufacturing Laboratory (SAML) at the University of Oklahoma is seeking several postdoctoral research associates to lead innovative research in additive manufacturing. Positions are for an initial one-year appointment with possible renewal up to three years, and include mentorship to advance your career in proposal writing, project management, and publishing results.

Successful candidates will work with an interdisciplinary team on high‑impact projects funded by federal

Qualifications

• Required: Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, industrial engineering, or closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in one of the three research areas (process simulation or AI/ML for process optimization).
• Experience with additive manufacturing technology and materials characterization techniques.
• Strong record of publishing in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead pioneering research in additive manufacturing within SAML.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students; contribute to project management, proposals, and publications.
• Publish results and present at conferences; collaborate with federal agencies and industry partners.
• Support proposal writing and coordinate research activities.

Skills

Excellent written communication

Oral communication

Interpersonal skills

Mentoring students

Proposal writing

Education

Ph.D. in mechanical engineering

Ph.D. in aerospace engineering

Ph.D. in electrical engineering

Ph.D. in materials science

Ph.D. in industrial engineering

Tools

Additive manufacturing technology

Materials characterization techniques

Job description

University of Oklahoma Norman Campus: Gallogly College of Engineering: School of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering

Location

The University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK

Open Date

Oct 09, 2026

Description

The Sooner Additive Manufacturing Laboratory (SAML) at the University of Oklahoma is seeking several highly motivated, innovative, and collaborative postdoctoral research associates to lead pioneering research in additive manufacturing. Successful candidates will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary team and will have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects sponsored by federal agencies and industry partners. Candidates must be a US person or U.S. citizen. The positions are focused on three broad research areas. Candidates should have demonstrated skills and a strong interest in one or more of the following areas:

• Process simulation
• AI/machine learning for process optimization

The postdoctoral research associates will be key members of SAML. The positions are for an initial one-year appointment, with the possibility of annual renewal for up to three years based on performance and availability of funding. Successful candidates will receive dedicated mentorship to foster their career development, including guidance on proposal writing, project management, publishing and presenting results, and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. The positions include a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.

Review of applications will be done on a rolling basis and will continue until the positions are filled. The positions can start as soon as possible.

Salary will be commensurate with experience, expertise, and skills.

About SAML

SAML is a state-of-the‑art facility dedicated to advancing the science and technology of manufacturing science at the University of Oklahoma. Our research covers the entire lifecycle of additive manufacturing, from fundamental process science to materials characterization and part qualification. The lab is equipped with a wide range of industrial additive manufacturing systems, advanced characterization tools, and high-performance computing resources.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• 1. A Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, materials science, industrial engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• 2. Demonstrated expertise in one of the three research areas described above.
• 3. Experience with additive manufacturing technology and materials characterization techniques.
• 4. A strong record of publishing research in peer-reviewed academic journals.
• 5. Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1. A multidisciplinary skill set spanning one or more research areas listed above.
• 2. Experience in mentoring students and contributing to research proposals.
• 3. Demonstrated ability to work independently and direct research projects.
• 4. Experience in proposal writing.
• 5. Experience in collaborating with partners in industry or at national laboratories.

The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Mission of the University of Oklahoma

The Mission of the University of Oklahoma is to provide the best possible educational experience for our students through excellence in teaching, research and creative activity, and service to the state and society.