Research Associate in Materials Science and Engineering - UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA : Job Details

The Opila High Temperature Materials Lab in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Virginia is seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate to develop scientific research test capability and to conduct, interpret and communicate results associated with high temperature materials oxidation, volatilization, and diffusion projects. These projects involve oxidation of metal and ceramic systems, volatilization of ceramic systems in steam, and fundamental mechanisms of diffusion in protective oxide coatings.

QUALIFICATION REQUIRMENTS: A Ph.D. degree in Materials Science and Engineering or equivalent including a thesis dissertation with emphasis on thermochemical and kinetic mechanisms of oxidation/corrosion/volatilization/diffusion of high temperature material systems is required by the start date. Extensive experience with utilizing multiple oxide processing methods including air plasma spraying and spark plasma sintering. Extensive experience with developing and utilizing experimental capabilities such as high?temperature controlled?environment furnaces, TGA/DSC, dilatometry, data acquisition, temperature control, automated experimental control as well as materials characterization methods such as metallography, nanoindentation, XRD, SEM/EDS, and TEM. Computational skills in thermodynamic modeling utilizing FactSage, ThermoCalc, or equivalent and Finite Element Analysis using ANSYS or equivalent, as well as analytical solutions for diffusion processes. Ability to plan and execute experiments, analyze, interpret, and model high temperature materials oxidation and volatilization reactions toward understanding fundamental aspects of materials thermochemical and kinetics behavior. Evidence of good written and oral English language skills is essential for writing papers and progress reports on scientific research, and for interacting with other researchers and program sponsors. Evidence of prior success in the form of archival publications in thermochemical aspects of high temperature materials behavior is a significant plus to the credentials of a successful candidate.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at and attach a cover letter, a detailed curriculum vitae, and contact information for three professional references. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on July 20, 2024, 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, appointment may be renewed for an additional two, one-year increments, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For additional information about the position, please contact Prof. Beth Opila at [email protected].

Questions regarding the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom at [email protected].

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

The University of Virginia, including 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, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.