Post-Doctoral Research Associate - Fibers and Composites Manufacturing Facility

Post-doctoral research associate: Fibers & Composites Manufacturing

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled post-doctoral research associate to join the Fibers and Composites Manufacturing Facility (FCMF)in materials processing, fiber sizing and graphene-based materials compositions and characterization. The research aims to advance the understanding of the relationships between interfaces, material compositions and structure-property-relationships. Close working with IACMI-The Composites Institute, industry and other sponsored research is a key requirement.

Position description

The successful candidate will work closely with a team of undergraduates, graduates, staff researchers and collaborators to advance the state-of-the-art in fibers and composites manufacturing. The position will also require a candidate to support various work force development needs across UT FCMF and IACMI-The Composites Institute. The research focus is multifold - (a) develop expertise in running and operating the fiber sizing line, design of experiments and industry support; (b) support work force development needs in collaboration between UT and IACMI-The Composites Institute; (c) advanced R&D incorporating graphene constituent in resin, fibers and interface and other means of process aids; (d) Gain familiarity and support other manufacturing, characterization and processing; and (e) Troubleshooting and equipment support of the lab during its transition to Innovation South.

The candidate will be required to work with the faculty PI/researchers graduate and undergraduate students, prepare research reports, communicate with sponsors, and prepare high-quality scholarly work for publication in top journals. Successful candidates will also be creative and develop their own unique research paths and proposals for submission to funding agencies or development into scholarly works.

Key responsibilities

§ Perform duties and responsibilities assigned from the current funded programs at FCMF, and collaboration with IACMI-The Composites Institute

§ Develop understanding, and expertise in fiber sizing and design of experiments in support of industry and other sponsored research

§ Support efforts in work force development - K-12, community college workshops, bootcamps, training and preparation as guided by the PI and participating faculty

§ Enhance work on graphene in terms of functional and value-add benefits for TRL 4-7 development

§ Collaborate and train/help graduate, and undergraduate students develop and overcome obstacles to complete all educational and research objectives.

§ Developing scholarly work: lead development of high-quality publications.

§ Collaboration and communication: Collaborate with team members and external partners. Present research findings in conferences, workshops, and academic journals.

Qualifications:

Requirements

§ Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

§ Strong background in materials characterization and familiarity with manufacturing.

§ Demonstrated track record of research excellence through publications in reputable conferences and journals.

§ Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment and independently drive research projects.

§ Excellent communication skills in both written and spoken English.

This post-doctoral position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research at the forefront of materials and manufacturing. The successful candidate will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and work in a stimulating and dynamic research environment. The position is initially offered for a one-year term with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled with a target starting date of August 15, 2024.