Job Description

USRA, in support of the Glenn Engineering and Research Support (GEARS) contract, is currently seeking a Two Year Senior Postdoctoral Researcher to support the Materials Chemistry and Physics Branch at NASA Glenn Research Center. Future NASA aerospace and planetary exploration missions will require development of advanced functional materials with tailored properties in support of aeronautics and aerospace research programs. We are seeking to boost the Branch and Center capabilities in advanced engineered multifunctional ceramic materials. Specific properties of interest are high thermal conductivity, electrical insulation and multi-functional structures for applications of high voltage power transmission.


Required Qualifications:

This position requires developing methods for fabricating test articles based on expertise in synthesis, processing and fabrication of solid-state nanomaterials and devices with multifunctional properties. Required expertise includes but is not limited to the preparation of polymer/ceramic, ceramic/ceramic composites, synthesis and development of nanocomponents, knowledge and expertise with common ceramic powder processing techniques such as powder preparation, slurry and ink formulation. The preparation of these materials might require chemical functionalization of boron nitride nanomaterials. These position requirements also include developing mini-ceramic matrix composites and/or composites which incorporate nanofibers or nanoparticles for multiple applications that require a combination of high thermal conductivity and low electrical conductivity properties.

The candidate is expected to determine root cause of any fabrication problems, to provide a solution, and is asked to work as a part of a research team in determining any composition or microstructure related performance issues of test articles. Research activities require familiarity with materials characterization techniques such as optical and scanning electron microscopy, particle size measurement, porosimeter, TGA/DTA, XRD, Raman, FTIR, and common electrochemical and mechanical analytical techniques. This research is strongly supported by state-of-the-art analytical and computational analysis facilities for chemical, thermal, and physical analyses and material characterization; electrochemical instrumentation for fundamental studies; and inert atmosphere glove boxes for sensitive material synthesis and handling.

Education:

PhD or Doctoral degree with focus in Materials Science, Ceramic Engineering, or Chemistry.
Experience:

The candidate is expected to have a background in materials synthesis and processing. The candidate is also expected to:

be a team player;
have willingness to learn and collaborate with other scientists;
have strong verbal and written communication skills; and
experience with documenting studies through presentations or written peer-reviewed publications.
Citizenship Requirement:

U.S. Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents Accepted

Working Conditions:

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, etc. Extensive online usage. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities perform the essential duties and responsibilities.

Travel:

Up to­ 5% travel.

Applicants should apply to the posting at USRA Careers and include a letter of interest, resume, or curriculum vita. Additional information on USRA can be found at www.usra.edu.

Effective December 8, all USRA employees must be fully vaccinated (2 weeks past final dose) unless they are entitled to a reasonable and legal accommodation. If you are not vaccinated, please consider getting your COVID-19 vaccination as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please contact your HR Recruiter for further information.

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity.