The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Virginia is seeking a postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) who can assist with government and industrially sponsored research programs in materials science and engineering. A major focus of those research programs will be additive manufacturing of refractory metal alloys.

Responsibilities:

1. Perform laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing studies.

2. Sample preparation of powder and bulk refractory metal alloy samples.

3. Employ analytical equipment to characterize refractory metal alloy samples including scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), dual beam focused ion beam (FIB), x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray fluorescent spectroscopy (XRF), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS).

4. Oversee experimental measurements, updating of equipment, and development of procedures and training for safe and effective operation of the equipment.

5. Mentor undergraduate and graduate students.

6. Draft project reports and archival journal papers in collaboration with the PI and students.

7. Interact with government and corporate sponsors, vendors, and the scientific community – including presenting at conferences and program reviews and giving demonstrations.

8. Assist the PI with identifying and securing new funded research projects by exploring new ideas, coordinating with sponsors, and co-authoring proposals.

Qualification Requirements:

1. Ph.D. in materials science, mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field.

2. Strong and demonstrable technical skill and experience with the aforementioned additive manufacturing and materials characterization techniques.

3. Measurable experience in setting up, operating, and maintenance on SLM 125 laser powder bed printing machines in both conventional print and single-track modes.

4. Some experience with characterizing refractory metals is desirable but not required.

5. Experience mentoring younger researchers – undergraduate and graduate students.

6. Attention to detail, good record keeping ability, and keen analytical skills.

7. Ability to work on multiple projects, to help the group succeed in more than your core project(s).

8. Good oral and written communication in English.

Note: the main projects which will support this position require proof of US citizenship

Application Procedure: Apply online at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and attach a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references.

Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.

Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin on March 19, 2023, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for an additional one year, contingent upon satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Prof. Sean R. Agnew at sra4p@virginia.edu and Prof. James M. Fitz-Gerald at jmf8h@virginia.edu.

For questions about the application process, please contact Richard Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu.

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits .

COVID Vaccination Requirement and Guidelines

Please visit the UVA COVID-19 Job Requirements and Guidelines  webpage prior to applying for current information regarding vaccination requirements?and?guidelines for employment at UVA.

The University of Virginia, i ncluding the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences.  We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.