Assistant Research Professor - Materials Science and Engineering

The Pennsylvania State University•University Park, FL

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MatSE) at the Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a full-time Assistant Research Professor position in the areas of optoelectronics, photovoltaics, and advanced functional thin-film devices. The successful candidate will lead research efforts in thin film growth, device fabrication, and electrical/optoelectronic transport measurements, with a focus on the development of optoelectronic devices such as memory storage devices, sensors, and solar cells. This position emphasizes energy harvesting, device engineering, and the integration of next-generation materials into functional electronic and optoelectronic systems. The research program will involve fabrication and optimization of thin-film devices, nanofabrication and device integration, and detailed characterization of electrical, optical, and transport properties. This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
Strong postdoctoral research experience in optoelectronics, photovoltaics, or device engineering.
Proven track record of high-quality publications.
Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Strong expertise and demonstrated research experience in optoelectronics, photovoltaics (particularly solar energy harvesting), memory storage devices, and perovskite device engineering.
Solid background in thin-film deposition techniques such as CVD, ALD, sputtering, or evaporation.
Experience in nanofabrication methods including photolithography.
Expertise in materials and device characterization, including electrical, optical, and structural analysis.
Strong understanding of charge transport and interface engineering in functional materials.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with multifunctional materials, bio-hybrid systems, or emerging device platforms.

Responsibilities

Lead research efforts in thin film growth, device fabrication, and electrical/optoelectronic transport measurements.
Focus on the development of optoelectronic devices such as memory storage devices, sensors, and solar cells.
Emphasize energy harvesting, device engineering, and the integration of next-generation materials into functional electronic and optoelectronic systems.
Conduct cutting-edge research in optoelectronic and energy materials.
Lead material synthesis, device design, fabrication, and characterization efforts.
Collaborate with faculty across PSU and related disciplines.
Supervise and mentor postdocs, graduate and undergraduate researchers.
Contribute to proposal writing and research program development.
Publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.