Address
Form of workResearch Engineer Senior/CAER
Requisition Number:RE44267
Working Title:Research Engineer Senior- Carbon Materials/CAER
Department Name:40550:Ctr For Applied Energy Res
Work Location:Lexington, KY
Grade Level:47
Salary Range:$56,596-93,358/year
Type of Position:Staff
Position Time Status :Full-Time
Required Education:PhD
Click here for more information about equivalencies::https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies
Required Related Experience:No experience required.
Required License/Registration/Certification:None
Physical Requirements:Requires handling of light-weight objects up to 10 pounds, or some standing or walking. Risk of back injury from moving, lifting or positioning equipment, or materials; Exposure to injuries from use of equipment on the job, loud noises, temperature extremes, hazardous chemicals and fumes including waste; Intermittent job-related travel
Shift:Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., occasional evenings and weekends.
Job Summary:Over the past 30 years the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research [CAER] has built up an outstanding research program directed to high-value carbon materials, including:
1) materials derived from coal and petroleum resources such as pitches, binders, cokes, activated carbons, fibers2) polymer-derived fibers and composites & carbon/carbon composites3) unique high-temperature characterization of these materials
CAER is staffing up its Carbon Materials program in response to several new externally supported projects, and seeks one or more Research Engineers at the Associate or Senior levels. The successful candidate(s) will join (and may subsequently lead) a small team with primary responsibilities focused on one or more of the following: a) polymer solution spinning process trials to produce polymer precursor fiber, followed by its conversion to high strength carbon fiber, b) carrying out process trials for coal liquefaction, distillations and processing of mesophase pitch, including melt spinning of pitches, c) systematic high-temperature characterizations of carbon materials, with focus on the effects of temperature and environment on material properties, d) polymer matrix and carbon/carbon composites processing and characterization.
In addition to materials processing, the successful candidate(s) will work closely within the respective team, and with the research group and collaborators, conducting a variety of materials characterization techniques including polarized optical microscopy, SEM, x-ray scattering, gas pycnometry & density gradient column analysis, LFA thermal diffusivity, single filament tensile testing, dilatometry for CTE, and several additional structural, mechanical, thermal and electrical property analyses of experimental materials. Applicants for the position will preferably have advanced education and experience in materials, chemical (or related) engineering, and high priority for safety. Additionally, preferred applicants will have strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated record of teamwork, adaptability, innovation and initiative; and the ability to work well with all levels of personnel throughout CAER’s laboratories. A reliable and dedicated work ethic is expected and required.
Independent, disciplined researchers with a strong publication and presentation track record are preferred. Experience in independently conducting publication quality research expediently is a critical component.
Critical thinker with the ability to maintain compliance with safety precautions.
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? :No
Preferred Education/Experience:Experience reading technical drawings is ideal along with a degree in Engineering or related field.
Deadline to Apply:03/18/2024
University Community of Inclusion:The University of Kentucky is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce by ensuring all our students, faculty, and staff work in an environment of openness and acceptance. We strive to foster a community where people of all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives can feel secure and welcome. We also value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.
