Research Technician - Poudel Group - Materials Science and Engineering

Penn State University; University Park (TX); In loco; USD 22.000 - 31.000; Tempo pieno

Descrizione del lavoro

Penn State University’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering seeks a motivated Research Technician to support thermoelectric materials and device development. You will assist with synthesis, powder processing, consolidation, device fabrication, and performance measurements.

Ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree in a related field and has hands‑on experimental experience. The role offers hands-on laboratory work, data documentation, and collaboration in a safety-conscious research

Competenze

• 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.

Mansioni

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

Conoscenze

Hands-on research

Lab equipment operation

Documentation

Team collaboration

Formazione

B.S. in related field

Strumenti

Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS)

Hot Pressing

Extrusion

Descrizione del lavoro

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.

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.

Job duties include:

• 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.

EEO IS THE LAW

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.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines