Postdoctoral Scholar, Nuclear Engineering

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State’s Department of Nuclear Engineering invites applications for a full‑time postdoctoral scholar position focused on developing capillary porous systems (CPS) for liquid metals as plasma‑facing components in future tokamaks.

The role collaborates with Prof. Martin Nieto to advance TRL for liquid metals in next‑generation fusion reactors. Apply via the Penn State Careers website; background checks apply.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, or closely related field.
• Experience in plasma–material interactions, plasma‑facing materials, vacuum systems, and surface characterization.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Designing and fabricating CPS using advanced manufacturing methods such as field‑assisted sintering, laser processing, etc.
• Investigating CPS–liquid metal interactions through in‑situ and ex‑situ characterization techniques.
• Evaluating CPS performance under plasma exposure and reactor‑relevant conditions.

Skills

Nuclear Engineering

Materials Science

Plasma–material interactions

Education

Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering

Tools

Vacuum systems

Surface characterization equipment

Job description

Position Overview

The Department of Nuclear Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a full‑time postdoctoral scholar position focused on developing capillary porous systems (CPS) for liquid metals as plasma‑facing components in future tokamaks.

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

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Responsibilities

• Designing and fabricating CPS using advanced manufacturing methods such as field‑assisted sintering, laser processing, etc.
• Investigating CPS–liquid metal interactions through in‑situ and ex‑situ characterization techniques.
• Evaluating CPS performance under plasma exposure and reactor‑relevant conditions.

The postdoctoral scholar will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team, including Prof. Martin Nieto at Penn State, to advance the technical readiness level of liquid metals for next‑generation fusion reactors.

Learn more about the research groups here: https://sites.psu.edu/rdmap/

The position is open immediately and will remain available until filled.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Prior experience in plasma–material interactions, plasma‑facing materials, vacuum systems, and surface characterization.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Application Instructions

• Contact Prof. Xing Wang at [e-mail] with your CV attached. Please include “Postdoc Application” in the subject line.
• Application materials should include a brief statement of purpose and a full CV.
• Submit application materials online through the Penn State Careers website using the “Apply” link above.

Background Checks / Clearances

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

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page).

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.

Equal Opportunity Employment

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. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports 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.