Part-Time - Research Assistant Shock Detonation - Mechanical Engineering

The Pennsylvania State University • University Park, FL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Combustion Research Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Penn State is seeking a Summer 2026 graduate Research Assistant. This part-time position is backed by the Office of Naval Research as part of a multi-university team exploring the fundamental energy transfer and initiation process in energetic materials at the micro and nano scales. This position is 100% in-person at the labs at University Park campus locations.

Requirements

• Knowledge of chemical kinetics and combustion theories.
• Experience in experimental design and handling of reacting or energetic materials.
• Proven experience with laser diagnostics.
• Effective communicator.
• Commitment to safety standards in handling hazardous, reactive, and energetic materials
• Previous experience in similar research settings and topics.
• M.S. in relevant field (i.e., Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering), with significant research experience with related diagnostic systems.

Responsibilities

• Design experimental facility for conducting microscale shock detonation experiments.
• Develop and apply high-speed laser and multi-spectral imaging diagnostics.
• Develop safe processing techniques and prepare inert and reactive micro-scale samples for use by PSU and other team members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level