Postdoctoral Research Associate - College of Engineering - Materials Science and Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

As one of the oldest forms of applied science and engineering, Carnegie Mellon University’s Department of Metallurgical Engineering was founded in 1906 and named after its emphasis on the study of metals. Since then, our field has broadened to include all classes of materials from ceramics and polymers to semiconductors and biological materials. Whereas early eras of civilization were widely identified by human’s ability to work with new material (Stone Age, Bronze Age), today our abilities and projects span a variety of materials and combine everything from physics and chemistry to civil and electrical engineering.

Carnegie Mellon University’s department of Materials Science and Engineering is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to join Marc De Graef’s group in the Materials Science and Engineering Department in the College of Engineering. The postdoc will make use of the experimental and computational tools in the Materials Characterization Facility to develop and employ novel techniques for defect characterization in solids. Core responsibilities include:

Core Responsibilities:

• Expert on modalities in the scanning electron microscope (SEM): Electron Back- Scatter Diffraction (EBSD), Electron Channeling Contrast Imaging (ECCI), and other SEM-based modalities
• Expert on modalities in the transmission electron microscope (TEM): conventional imaging and diffraction, STEM Diffraction Contrast Imaging
• Develop workflows for in-situ thermo-mechanical experiments in the SEM
• Conduct simulations for all the above experimental modalities using the EMsoft00 package and related similar software
• Perform data analysis and visualization
• Train and supervise masters and doctoral students
• Coordinate research with external collaborators
• Report and present results
• Identify problems and obstacles to progress; develop strategies to tackle problems
• Participate in writing high impact papers, reports, proposals, and training
• Document procedures and workflows; curate and preserve data
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Adaptability, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. We are in search of a team member who can effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

• PhD Degree in MSE or a related field (e.g., physics, chemistry, chemical engineering)
• Publications in peer-reviewed journals
• Demonstrated experience in materials characterization techniques
• Expert in the importance of defects for material properties and performance
• Expert in combining different numerical tools via Python scripting
• Experience in performing complex simulations
• Experience training and supervising students
• High proficiency in writing and communication skills, teamwork, and presentation skills.
• A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance. 

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Pre/Post-Doctoral Associates & Fellows

Position Type

Postdoctoral Associate / Fellow (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information: