Postdoctoral Scholar, Materials Science and Engineering

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar in the Materials Science and Engineering Department. The role involves conducting research on advanced materials for applications in aerospace, defense, and microelectronics. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline and experience in materials processing and device characterization.

The position offers a competitive benefits package and requires strong communication skills. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and references.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent is required by the hire date.
• Excellent foundation in materials processing.
• Hands-on experience with device and system characterization.
• Experience in radiation effects is very helpful.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and conduct manufacturing experiments for a wide range of materials.
• Develop standard operating procedures for consistent processing and characterization.
• Work collaboratively on a multidisciplinary team.
• Synthesize and manufacture unique design architectures.
• Assist in performing testing and analytical materials characterization.
• Assist in modeling and/or experimental analysis.
• Analyze data and disseminate findings.

Skills

Materials processing

Device and system characterization

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Materials/Mechanical/Electrical/Nuclear Engineering or related discipline

Job description

Position specifications

The Materials Science and Engineering Department, within the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences at Penn State is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar to perform research under the direction of Professor Douglas Wolfe (Materials Science & Engineering). This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation beyond the term will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Job duties

• Design, develop, and conduct manufacturing experiments for a wide range of materials comprised of CsPbB3, nanocomposite structures, polymer matrix ceramic composites, ceramic matrix composites, and advanced coating systems for a variety of applications in the aerospace, defense, nuclear, and microelectronic industries.
• Develop standard operating procedures to conduct consistent processing and characterization of materials for extreme environments.
• Work collaboratively on a multidisciplinary team.
• Synthesize and manufacture unique design architectures comprised of coatings and bulk materials using a variety of manufacturing methods. Materials synthesis may include perovskite systems, composites, oxides, and mixed components for a variety of applications.
• Assist in performing a variety of testing and analytical materials characterization using the materials characterization laboratory facilities.
• Assist in perform modeling and/or experimental analysis (microscopy, spectroscopy) to investigate the fundamentals of radiation effects in electronics and shielding.
• Analyze data.
• Disseminate findings in journals, conferences, and monthly presentations.

Qualifications and requirements

• Applicants should have a Ph.D. or equivalent as of the hire date in Materials/Mechanical/Electrical/Nuclear Engineering or related discipline.
• Excellent foundation in materials processing.
• Hands‑on experience with device and system characterization.
• Experience in radiation effects (single event, total ionizing dose, displacement damage) is very helpful.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being.

EEO statement

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.

Application

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position, a CV including a publication list, and names and contact information of up to three references.