Postdoctoral Scholar Mechanical Engineering

University of California - Merced; Merced, California, Village of Avon (CA, MO, NY); On-site; USD 66,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a motivated postdoctoral scholar to join their innovative research team. This exciting role involves characterizing fungal structures through hands-on experimentation and data analysis, contributing to groundbreaking research in material behavior. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to publish findings in academic papers and present at conferences, all while mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. If you are passionate about research and eager to make a significant impact in the field of mechanical engineering, this position offers a unique opportunity to thrive in a collaborative and dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering required.
• Experience with experimental research and material characterization preferred.

Responsibilities

• Collect and characterize fungal structures through various tests.
• Publish research findings and supervise assistants.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Experimental research

Material characterization

Software skills (MATLAB, Python, R)

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

R

Job description

Position overview

Position title: Postdoctoral Scholar

Salary range: Annual Starting Salary: See table 23 for the position salary range based on experience $66,737 - $80,034.

Percent time: 100%

Anticipated start: August 1, 2025

Position duration: 2 Years (8/1/2025 - 8/1/2027)

Application Window

Open date: February 24, 2025

Most recent review date: Tuesday, Apr 1, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications received after this date will be reviewed if the position remains unfilled.

Final date: December 31, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but late applications will only be considered if the position is still open.

Position description

The Porter Bioinspired lab (PorterBioinspired.com) is seeking a motivated postdoctoral scholar to work on the characterization of fungal structures. Responsibilities include:

1. Collecting wildtype fungal structures or culturing them in the lab.
2. Performing characterization tests including imaging, mechanical, and chemical testing, followed by data analysis.
3. Developing theoretical models to describe material behavior based on data.
4. Publishing research findings in academic papers and presenting at conferences.
5. Supervising graduate and undergraduate assistants involved in related projects.

Qualifications

Basic qualifications: PhD in Mechanical Engineering. Excellent communication skills.

Preferred qualifications: Experience with experimental research and material characterization; familiarity with biological materials such as fungi; basic skills in software like MATLAB, Python, or R.

Application Requirements

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Authorization of Information Release (disclose any misconduct or investigations in the last seven years; complete, sign, and upload the form)

Reference requirements

• 3 references (contact information only)

Apply link: https://aprecruit.ucmerced.edu/JPF01890

Help contact: [e-mail]

About UC Merced

UC Merced is a top-ranked public university committed to research excellence and inclusive education, located near Yosemite National Park. It is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics. Employment conditions include compliance with university policies and vaccination requirements.

Job location

Merced, CA