Postdoctoral Scholar

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The College of Earth and Mineral Sciences at Penn State invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar position to conduct research on projects in collaboration with Dr. Randy Vander Wal. Broadly, the research involves carbon materials, surface chemistry, microscopic and spectroscopic characterization and applications. Carbon forms range from graphene to carbon blacks, also including graphitizing and non-graphitizing carbons precursors. Characterization techniques include TEM, XRD, NMR, TGA, Raman and XPS for structure and bonding information. Applications include barrier coatings, carbon-carbon composites and energy storage media. ranging from combustion produced soot to graphene, and addressing topics such as oxidative reactivity and functionalization, respectively. These themes connect fields spanning materials, human health, and energy. Extensive analytical characterization using the instruments at the Penn State Materials Characterization Laboratory (MCL) and laboratory-based preparation is common to these material studies, in particular laser processing. Current projects include characterization and processing of graphene mixtures in composites, graphite formation, and reacting flows, including flame synthesis. Related studies include thermal versus microwave pyrolysis processing of hydrocarbons. Work on multiple projects is to be anticipated.

Requirements

• PhD in fuel science, materials science, chemical engineering, or related field by start date.
• Strong background and training in chemistry and materials characterization techniques.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Requisite computer skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with pulsed lasers, optics, spectroscopy and associated spectral acquisition systems.
• Adaptability to specialized data analysis software, e.g. Origin and analytical instrumental software packages.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on projects in collaboration with Dr. Randy Vander Wal.
• Characterize carbon materials using techniques such as TEM, XRD, NMR, TGA, Raman and XPS.
• Prepare materials using laboratory-based methods, including laser processing.
• Work on multiple projects, including characterization and processing of graphene mixtures in composites, graphite formation, and reacting flows.
• Conduct studies on thermal versus microwave pyrolysis processing of hydrocarbons.

Benefits

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

What This Job Offers

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