Postdoctoral Scholar

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Penn State's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE), specifically Dr. Farshad Rajabipour’s research group, is seeking applications for two Postdoctoral Scholar positions. One position will focus on developing and deploying a pore solution resistivity/pH sensor for concrete quality and durability assessment. The second position will concentrate on predicting and mitigating alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete. The research group is involved in cutting-edge work in concrete decarbonization, utilization of marginal and nonconventional pozzolans, extending the durability and service life of concrete infrastructure, biochar-augmented concrete, and ultra-high-performance concrete. These positions offer significant opportunities for leadership and collaboration with academic and industrial R&D teams, both domestically and internationally. Dr. Rajabipour is looking for motivated candidates eager to enhance their expertise, contribute to research project management and execution, and mentor graduate students. The selected candidates will become part of a collaborative team within CEE’s Materials Innovation Studio, the Civil Infrastructure Testing and Evaluation Lab, the Additive Construction Lab, and the Materials Research Institute. Teaching opportunities may be available, and career development resources are accessible through the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. The positions are situated within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Larson Transportation Institute. CEE is dedicated to achieving high quality of life through sustainable and resilient civil infrastructure systems, with research focusing on transportation systems, water and sustainability, infrastructure resilience, decarbonization of the built environment, and AI for water security. The department is highly ranked and boasts distinguished faculty. In Fall 2024, CEE relocated to the new, LEED-certified Engineering Collaborative Research and Education (ECoRE) building. The College of Engineering aims to prepare future generations for impactful careers in engineering and related fields through innovative educational experiences and supportive programs. The position is located in State College, Pennsylvania, recognized for its desirability, safety, vibrant community, excellent schools, reasonable housing, cultural events, and outdoor recreation. State College is accessible via a regional airport and within driving distance to major East Coast cities.

Requirements

• PhD degree in Civil Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Extensive research experience related to concrete materials and their characterization.
• Strong track record in scientific contributions supported by peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Developing and deploying a pore solution resistivity/pH sensor for assessing concrete quality and durability.
• Prediction and mitigation of alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete.
• Contributing to the management and execution of research projects.
• Mentoring of graduate students.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• Postdoctoral benefits are available.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree