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Job Description:

The Russ College of Engineering & Technology’s Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Environment ( ISEE ) at Ohio University invites applications for the position of Postdoctoral Researcher in Carbon Composites R & D. The Postdoctoral Researcher will lead the development, fabrication, and performance evaluation of carbon-carbon and carbon-metal composite materials within the Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Environment. This position will oversee composite manufacturing trials, optimize process parameters, and apply advanced materials characterization techniques to assess thermal, structural, electrical, and mechanical properties. The researcher will also design and execute statistically rigorous experiments, develop publications and reports, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders. Responsibilities include mentoring students, maintaining laboratory operations, and preparing oral and written materials.

Primary Responsibilities include:

1. Composite Fabrication and Processing: Lead the development and manufacturing of carbon- and metal-based composite materials. Responsibilities include selecting and acquiring appropriate carbon allotropes, designing and executing manufacturing trials, and operating high-temperature furnaces and metal forming equipment. The researcher will be responsible for optimizing processing parameters to enhance composite performance. In addition, they will evaluate alternative processing techniques (e.g., pressure-assisted impregnation or vacuum infiltration) to increase matrix yield and reduce energy consumption. Safe handling and storage of nano-scale carbon allotropes and coordination with campus environmental health and safety ( EHS ) staff will also be required.

2. Materials Characterization. Perform multi-scale materials characterization to evaluate the structural integrity, thermal stability, and physical properties of fabricated composites. This will involve: Microscopy (optical, SEM / EDS ) for porosity, carbon-matrix bonding, and microcrack detection, Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction ( XRD ) for assessing graphitization and crystalline structure, Thermogravimetric analysis ( TGA ) and differential scanning calorimetry ( DSC ) to evaluate thermal stability and decomposition behavior, porosimetry to assess density and pore distribution, Mechanical testing (e.g., flexural strength, interlaminar shear, compressive strength) and thermal conductivity (e.g., laser flash analysis) to benchmark against application-specific requirements. Data collected will inform iterative process modifications and material improvements.

3. Experimental Design, Data Analysis, and Reporting. Design experiments that align with the technical milestones of the projects. This includes identifying appropriate controls, replicates, and variable ranges to ensure statistical significance. The postdoc will be responsible for analyzing large datasets and for maintaining a detailed electronic lab notebook. They will prepare technical reports for internal tracking and external sponsor updates, including quarterly and final reports. The researcher will also contribute to project planning meetings and present findings to collaborators. An emphasis will be placed on reproducibility, transparency, and alignment with project objectives such as cost reduction, performance benchmarking, and scalability.

4. Dissemination of Research Finding. Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national conferences. Contribute to proposal development and sponsor reporting to support future funding opportunities related to carbon materials research.

5. Laboratory Oversight and Collaboration: Oversee day-to-day operations of the research lab related to composite development, including student mentoring, equipment maintenance, and supply inventory. Collaborate with internal and external partners to advance the goals of the research project.

Minimum Qualifications:

+ Doctoral degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field by start of appointment.

+ At least 1 year of related work experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

To be successful, this position requires extensive knowledge of project management technologies, experimental procedure tools, lab safety and operating procedures, and contracting and reporting requirements for federal research. Significant independence of action is required to promptly respond to research sponsor requirements or inquiries. Requirements and inquiries may be technical, managerial, or programmatic in nature. The consequences of independent action can range from non-compliance with sponsoring agency requirements to loss of an externally-funded research project, as well as the loss of follow-on research opportunities.

Planning Unit: Russ College of Engineering & Technology

Department: Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Environment

Applicants may contact this person if they have questions about this position: Dr. Jason Trembly, [email protected]

Employment Type: full-time term

Advertised Salary:

Commensurate with credentials and experience.