Postdoc Research Associate - Materials Science

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

4d

About The Position

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities: The candidate will conduct cutting-edge atomic-scale simulations to investigate the mechanical behavior of materials subjected to extreme environments, including light illumination and electric fields. In this role, they will employ a range of atomistic simulation methods, such as molecular dynamics, density functional theory, and machine-learning force fields, to elucidate the deformation mechanisms activated by external stimuli. The candidate will collaborate closely with experimental teams to validate computational predictions and will be expected to disseminate research outcomes through high-impact, peer-reviewed publications. Required Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields Preferred Qualifications: Strong expertise in atomic-scale simulations (e.g., MD, DFT, ML-FF) Proficiency in computational programming (Python, C++, or related) Good track record of research publications Department Unit/Website: https://www.engineering.iastate.edu/ Proposed Start Date: April 1, 2026 Proposed End Date or Length of Term: March 31, 2027 Number of Months Employed Per Year: 12 Month Work Period Time Type: Full time Application Instructions: To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: 1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae 2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485. Why Choose ISU? Iowa State Postdocs enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as: Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa) Flexible Spending Accounts Various voluntary benefits and discounts Employee Assistance Program Wellbeing Program

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields

Nice To Haves

• Strong expertise in atomic-scale simulations (e.g., MD, DFT, ML-FF)
• Proficiency in computational programming (Python, C++, or related)
• Good track record of research publications

Responsibilities

• Conduct cutting-edge atomic-scale simulations to investigate the mechanical behavior of materials subjected to extreme environments, including light illumination and electric fields.
• Employ a range of atomistic simulation methods, such as molecular dynamics, density functional theory, and machine-learning force fields, to elucidate the deformation mechanisms activated by external stimuli.
• Collaborate closely with experimental teams to validate computational predictions
• Disseminate research outcomes through high-impact, peer-reviewed publications.

Benefits

• comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees