Research Technician - Poudel Group - Materials Science and Engineering

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (TX); Sur place; USD 22 000 - 31 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

Penn State University is seeking a Research Technician to support thermoelectric materials and device development. The role involves materials synthesis, powder processing, consolidation, device fabrication, and performance testing in a hands-on laboratory setting.

You will perform alloy preparation, SPS hot pressing, and device assembly, while maintaining safety and meticulous documentation to support research outcomes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
• Basic understanding of materials synthesis, processing, and characterization.
• Interest in hands-on experimental research and laboratory equipment operation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Good organizational, documentation, and communication skills.

Responsabilités

• Assist in synthesis and preparation of thermoelectric materials, including alloy preparation, powder processing, mixing, and milling.
• Perform material consolidation using SPS, hot pressing, and extrusion.
• Support device fabrication: sample cutting, polishing, metallization, bonding, and module assembly.
• Conduct materials characterization and device performance testing, including electrical and thermal transport measurements.
• Assist with testing of thermoelectric modules for power generation and cooling.
• Maintain lab equipment, document procedures, organize data, and assist with analysis of results.
• Follow lab safety procedures and maintain a clean research environment.

Connaissances

Hands-on experimental research

Laboratory equipment operation

Independent and collaborative work

Documentation and communication

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Physics

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry

Outils

Spark plasma sintering (SPS)

Hot pressing

Extrusion

Powder processing

Description du poste

Job Description and Position Requirements

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Penn State University is seeking a motivated, hands-on Research Technician to support ongoing research in thermoelectric materials and device development. The successful candidate will assist with materials synthesis, powder processing, bulk consolidation, device fabrication, and performance characterization. This position offers an opportunity to gain practical experience with advanced materials processing techniques and thermoelectric technologies for power generation and thermal management applications.

• Assist in the synthesis and preparation of thermoelectric materials, including alloy preparation, powder processing, mixing, and milling.
• Perform materials consolidation and processing using techniques such as spark plasma sintering (SPS), hot pressing, and extrusion.
• Support thermoelectric device fabrication, including sample cutting, polishing, metallization, bonding, and module assembly.
• Conduct materials characterization and device performance testing, including electrical and thermal transport measurements.
• Assist with testing of thermoelectric modules for power generation and cooling applications.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, document experimental procedures, organize data, and assist with analysis of experimental results.
• Follow established laboratory safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized research environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Basic understanding of materials synthesis, processing, and characterization.
• Interest in hands-on experimental research and laboratory equipment operation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Good organizational, documentation, and communication skills.

Compensation

The starting rate for this job is $19/hr.

Background Checks/Clearances

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

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.

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