Graduate Research Associate Jobs in Edmond, OK (NOW HIRING)

Description
The Sooner Additive Manufacturing Laboratory (SAML) at the University of Oklahoma is seeking 1-3 highly motivated, innovative, and collaborative postdoctoral research associates to lead pioneering research in advanced manufacturing. Successful candidates will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary team and will have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects sponsored by federal agencies and industry partners. The positions are focused on three core research thrusts. Candidates should have demonstrated skills and a strong interest in one or more of the following areas:
1. In-Situ Monitoring for Advanced & Additive Manufacturing: This research focuses on developing and implementing novel sensing and data analytics techniques for real-time process monitoring and quality assurance. Responsibilities may include (i) integrating optical, thermal, acoustic and other sensors with manufacturing systems, (ii) developing data fusion and signal processing algorithms, and (iii) applying machine learning or AI models to detect and classify process signatures and defects.
2. Predictive Modeling for Manufacturing: This research aims to create high-fidelity, physics-based or data-driven models to simulate manufacturing processes. Responsibilities may include developing and validating finite element models to predict thermal history, microstructure evolution, residual stress, and final part performance. A strong background in computational mechanics is preferred.
3. Manufacturing Process Development & Optimization: This research involves hands-on development and optimization of novel manufacturing processes, with an emphasis on metal additive and subtractive manufacturing. Responsibilities include designing and conducting experiments, developing new material-process parameter sets, creating innovative post-processing techniques, material testing, and utilizing advanced materials characterization methods to link process variables to material properties.
The postdoctoral research associates will be key members of SAML. The positions are for an initial one-year appointment, with the possibility of annual renewal for up to three years based on performance and availability of funding. Successful candidates will receive dedicated mentorship to foster their career development, including guidance on proposal writing, project management, publishing and presenting results, and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. The positions include a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.
Review of applications will be done on a rolling basis and will continue until the positions are filled. The positions can start as soon as possible.
About SAML
SAML is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advancing the science and technology of manufacturing science at the University of Oklahoma. Our research covers the entire lifecycle of manufacturing, from fundamental process science to materials characterization and part qualification. The lab is equipped with a wide range of industrial additive manufacturing systems, advanced characterization tools, and high-performance computing resources.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
1. A Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, materials science, industrial engineering, or a closely related discipline.
2. Demonstrated expertise in one of the three research areas described above.
• For the in-situ monitoring position: Proficiency with sensor integration, data acquisition systems (e.g., LabVIEW), and data analysis programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB).
• For the modeling position: Significant experience with simulation software (e.g., Abaqus, COMSOL, ANSYS) and/or developing custom scientific code (e.g., C++, Fortran, Python).
• For the process development position: Hands-on experience with advanced manufacturing equipment (e.g., laser powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition) and materials characterization techniques.
3. A strong record of publishing research in peer-reviewed academic journals.
4. Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
1. A multidisciplinary skill set spanning more than one of the listed research areas.
2. Experience in mentoring students and contributing to research proposals.
3. Experience in proposal writing.
4. Demonstrated ability to work independently and direct research projects.
5. Experience in collaborating with partners in industry or at national laboratories.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and curriculum vitae, and the names and telephone numbers of at least three references to Dr. Zahed Siddique (zsiddique@ou.edu) and Dr. Yingtao Liu (yingtao@ou.edu). Salary will be commensurate with experience, expertise and skills.