Posting Details

Job Title Post-Doctoral Scholar - Carbon Materials/CAER Requisition Number DU11859 Department Name 40550:Ctr For Applied Energy Res Work Location Lexington, KY Salary Range $56,500 Type of Position Temporary Position Time Status Full-Time Required Education PhD Required Related Experience n/a Required License/Registration/Certification n/a Physical Requirements lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 10 lbs; Shift Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm (40 hours/week) 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 postdoctoral scholars. 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.

Duties and Responsibilities: A sampling of duties and responsibilities the successful candidate will be engaged in are as follows:

1. Equipment and Supplies
Assist in the preparation and maintenance of research environment and equipment, including cleaning and set-up duties. Constructs, assembles, installs, operates, calibrates, tests, modifies, and maintains process equipment and analytical apparatus. Responsible for procurement, storage, logging of supplies and equipment. Responsible for handling, identification, packaging and storage of raw materials and samples. Assist in the cleaning and maintenance of lab supplies and equipment.

2. Laboratory and Experimental Research
Responsible for collection of data, data storage, and contributes to analysis and interpretation of results, including taking samples, making identifications and taking measurements, and collecting, recording, and coding/ plotting data and analyzing data. Maintains adequate up to date log books and other records. Monitors quality and reproducibility of data, identifies problem areas, and institutes repeats/checks where necessary.

3. Results and Scholarly Output
Contributes to the preparation of scholarly reports, abstracts, manuscripts, articles, technical reviews, invention disclosures, and proposal submissions.

4. Instruction and Service
May be involved in the instruction and training of other students and employees, and providing technical services for the general public, government, industry and academic organizations.

5. Occupational Safety
Maintains clean and safe working area and follows and prosecutes safety procedures. Stays up to date on appropriate use of tools, instruments, computers and analytical apparatus.


Skills / Knowledge / Abilities 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.

Specific skills that are desired include: 1) Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials processing; 2) Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials characterization; 3) The ability to record and keep accurate records and data; and 4) Knowledge of the form and style of research writing and presentation – including reporting to federal sponsors and drafting research manuscripts for publication. Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience Deadline to Apply 11/30/2024 Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone 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.

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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.