Role Snapshot
Associate Research Scientist position at University of Kentucky's Carbon Materials Group focused on conducting high-quality research in fiber materials, carbon fibers, and graphitic products for energy storage and advanced applications.
Key Responsibilities: Conduct fiber spinning process trials (solution and melt spinning), thermal conversion of fibers to carbon fibers, and systematic material characterization using advanced techniques including SEM, X-ray scattering, TGA/MS, and battery cell fabrication. Collaborate with research teams, prepare research reports and manuscripts for publication, and perform materials processing and characterization analyses.
Skills & Tools: Strong expertise in fiber and carbon materials processing and characterization, advanced knowledge of materials/chemical engineering principles, proficiency with analytical instruments (polarized optical microscopy, SEM, XPS, thermal analysis equipment), excellent data recording and documentation skills, and demonstrated ability to conduct publication-quality research with strong writing and presentation skills.
Qualifications: PhD preferred in materials science, chemical engineering, or related field with experience in fiber/carbon materials research and independent publication-quality research. Strong publication and presentation track record, teamwork capabilities, and demonstrated initiative and adaptability required.
Compensation: $65K–$95K/yr (estimated)
Job Description
The Carbon Materials Group is looking to hire one or more Associate Research Scientist 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:
1. Fiber spinning process trials (solution and melt spinning) to produce high-quality fiber & Thermal conversion of fibers (i.e. to carbon fibers)
2. Systematic and complete characterization of materials
3. Utilization and processing of coal by liquefaction and heat treatment methods for high value graphitic materials including synthetic graphite
4. Isotropic and mesophase pitch processing and characterization
5. 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
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:
1. Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials and composites processing
2. Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials characterization
3. The ability to record and keep accurate records and data
4. Knowledge of the form and style of research writing and presentation – including reporting to federal sponsors and drafting research manuscripts for publication
IEBC (Internal Employee Being Considered).