Role Snapshot
Associate Research Engineer position within the Carbon Materials Group focusing on high-quality research in fiber materials and graphitic products development. The role supports advancement of materials for energy storage and industrial applications through processing, characterization, and collaborative research.
Key Responsibilities: Conduct fiber spinning process trials (solution and melt spinning), thermal conversion to carbon fibers, and systematic materials characterization using advanced analytical techniques (SEM, XRD, TGA/MS, battery cycling, etc.). Collaborate with research teams on coal utilization, pitch processing, and drafting research reports and manuscripts for publication.
Skills & Tools: Strong expertise in fiber and carbon materials processing and characterization, independent publication-quality research capability, proficiency in materials analysis techniques (microscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical testing), and ability to maintain accurate scientific records. Excellent interpersonal skills, teamwork, adaptability, and technical writing for federal sponsors and peer-reviewed journals.
Qualifications: PhD preferred in materials engineering, chemical engineering, or related field with demonstrated experience in materials research and processing. Proven track record of independent research, publications, and presentations with emphasis on safety awareness and disciplined laboratory practice.
Compensation: $75K–$110K/yr (estimated)
Job Description
The Carbon Materials Group is looking to hire one or more Associate Research Engineers to conduct high-quality research with emphasis on a range of fiber materials and on high-value graphitic products. The successful candidate(s) will be a key team member with primary responsibilities focused on one or more of the following:
- Fiber spinning process trials (solution and melt spinning) to produce high-quality fiber & thermal conversion of fibers (i.e. to carbon fibers)
- Systematic and complete characterization of materials
- Utilization and processing of coal by liquefaction and heat treatment methods for high-value graphitic materials, including synthetic graphite
- Isotropic and mesophase pitch processing and characterization
- Advancement of new graphitic materials in energy storage with familiarity in battery cell fabrication and cycling.
In addition to materials processing, the successful candidate(s) will work closely within the respective team, and with the research group and collaborators, conducting a variety of materials characterization techniques including polarized optical microscopy, SEM, x-ray scattering, gas pycnometry, TGA/MS, DSC, DMA, Mettler DP, LFA thermal diffusivity, single filament tensile testing, dilatometry for CTE, battery cell fabrication & cycling analyses, XPS, and several additional chemical, structural, mechanical, thermal and electrical property analyses of experimental materials.
Applicants for the position will preferably have advanced education (PhD preferred) and experience in materials or chemical engineering (or related), and high priority for safety. Additionally, preferred applicants will have strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated record of teamwork, adaptability, innovation, and initiative; and the ability to work well with all levels of personnel throughout CAER’s laboratories. A reliable and dedicated work ethic is expected and required. Drafting of research reports and manuscripts for publication will be part of the job.
Skills/Knowledge/Abilities
Independent, disciplined researchers with a strong publication and presentation track record are preferred. Experience in independently conducting publication-quality research expediently is a critical component. Specific skills that are desired include:
- Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials and composites processing
- Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials characterization
- The ability to record and keep accurate records and data
- Knowledge of the form and style of research writing and presentation, including reporting to federal sponsors and drafting research manuscripts for publication
Internal Employees Being Considered