Postdoctoral Scholar - Polymer Engineering

Penn State University • University Park, PA

94d • Hybrid

About The Position

The School of Engineering at Penn State Behrend is seeking qualified applicants for a one-year postdoctoral scholar position, with the possibility of renewal. Candidates should hold a Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Polymer Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field, with research experience in polymer characterization or polymer processing. The postdoctoral scholar will be responsible for investigating crystallization phenomena related to polymer processing. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Xiaoshi Zhang, Dr. Alicyn Rhoades, and other polymer faculty members at Penn State. Experience with analytical techniques such as thermal analysis and X-ray scattering is required. Hands-on experience with plastic processing, fast scanning calorimetry (FSC), small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS), and synchrotron X-ray techniques is highly desirable. Knowledge of programming and machine learning is also strongly preferred. Additionally, candidates must have experience in mentoring undergraduate researchers, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and contribute to collaborative research efforts. The researcher will join a highly productive, dynamic research group consisting of faculty, post-docs, graduate students, and undergraduates. There will also be opportunities to collaborate with an interdisciplinary group of scholars across the Pennsylvania State University system.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Polymer Engineering, Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Research experience in polymer characterization or polymer processing.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as thermal analysis and X-ray scattering.
• Hands-on experience with plastic processing, fast scanning calorimetry (FSC), small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS), and synchrotron X-ray techniques.
• Experience in mentoring undergraduate researchers.
• Ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of programming and machine learning.
• Experience in collaborative research efforts.

Responsibilities

• Investigate crystallization phenomena related to polymer processing.
• Work with faculty members on polymer research.
• Utilize analytical techniques such as thermal analysis and X-ray scattering.
• Mentor undergraduate researchers.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to collaborative research efforts.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package designed to support personal and professional well-being.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree