Postdoctoral Scholar (ISM)

University of Kentucky; Kentucky; On-site; USD 52,000 - 74,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

None

Job summary

University of Kentucky seeks a Postdoctoral Scholar (ISM) to advance materials and manufacturing processes. The role collaborates with DEVCOM ARL and industry to study AFSD, cold spray and LPBF, establishing process–structure–property links through experiments and modeling.

The candidate will design experiments, perform microstructure characterization, and develop thermal and thermo-mechanical models. Mentoring, publications, and proposals are part of the duties.

Qualifications

• PhD in engineering with strong publication record.
• Experience with AM technologies: AFSD, cold spray and LPBF.
• Background in materials science and characterization (SEM, TEM, FIB, XRD, nano-indentation).
• Experience with analytical/numerical thermal and thermo-mechanical modeling.
• Experience with multi-scale modeling including residual stress and distortion.
• Proficient in CAD/CAM, MATLAB and G-Code.
• Knowledge of solid-state manufacturing, friction stir processing and welding.
• Ability to work in collaborative research environments.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to advance materials and manufacturing processes.
• Develop analytical and numerical modeling approaches for process–structure relationships.
• Perform microstructural characterization and evaluate residual stresses and defects.
• Analyze thermal and thermo-mechanical behavior and distortion in large-format builds.
• Mentor graduate students and collaborate with industry and ARL partners.
• Disseminate results via journal publications and conferences; contribute to proposals.

Skills

AFSD

Cold spray

LPBF

Materials science

SEM

TEM

FIB

XRD

Nano-indentation

CAD / CAM

MATLAB

G-Code

Friction stir processing

Welding

Subtract ive manufacturing

Heat treatment

AI / ML

Collaborative research

Education

PhD in Engineering

Job description

Posting Details

Job Title

Postdoctoral Scholar (ISM)

Requisition Number

DU10317

Department Name

8H600:Institute for Sustainable Manufacturing

Work Location

Lexington, KY

Salary Range Commensurate With Abilities And Experience

Type of Position

Other

Position Time Status

Full-Time

Required Education

PhD in Engineering

Required Related Experience

see Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Required License/Registration/Certification

n/a

Physical Requirements

Some standing or walking. Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods. Repetitive motion. Lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 lbs.

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm (40 hours/week)

Job Summary

The postdoctoral researcher will assist the faculty PI and Co-PIs in advancing materials and manufacturing processes in collaboration with research partners at DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory ( ARL ) and industry. The position focuses on additive manufacturing processes, including solid-state and fusion-based methods such as Additive Friction Stir Deposition ( AFSD ), cold spray, and laser powder bed fusion ( LPBF ), with an emphasis on establishing process–structure–property relationships through integrated experimental and modeling approaches.

The successful candidate will design and conduct experiments, develop and implement analytical and numerical modeling approaches, and perform microstructural characterization to evaluate process–structure relationships in additively manufactured materials. Work will also include analysis of thermal and thermo-mechanical behavior, plastic deformation, and defect formation, as well as evaluation of process outcomes such as residual stress and distortion, particularly in large-format applications.

Additional responsibilities include mentoring graduate students, collaborating with research partners, and disseminating results through peer-reviewed journal publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Candidates will also contribute to research proposal development and laboratory research activities.

Funding will be renewed yearly, contingent upon performance and funding availability.

Employment may be subject to U.S. export control regulations.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Strong publication record which reflects some combination of the following:

• Hands on experience with AM technologies, particularly AFSD , cold spray, and LPBF
• Strong background in materials science, including characterization techniques such as SEM , TEM , FIB , XRD , nano-indentation, etc.
• Experience with analytical/numerical thermal, thermo-mechanical, plastic deformation, and/or multi-physics modeling of manufacturing processes
• Experience modeling AM microstructure evolution, phase transformations, or defect generation
• Experience with multi-scale modeling across spatial and temporal domains, including residual stress and distortion in large-format structures
• Experience with CAD / CAM , MATLAB , G-Code
• Knowledge and/or experience with solid-state manufacturing processes, including friction stir processing and welding
• Knowledge and/or experience with subtractive manufacturing or heat treatment processes
• Familiarity with physics-informed or data-driven (AI/ML) manufacturing approaches
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative research environments

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

No

Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply

12/31/2026

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.