Research Program Assistant Jobs in State College, PA

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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MatSE) at The Pennsylvania State University invites applications for a full-time Assistant Research Professor position in the areas of thermoelectric materials, energy conversion materials, and advanced functional materials.
The successful candidate will lead research efforts in the design, synthesis, processing, characterization, and performance optimization of advanced materials for thermal energy conversion, waste heat recovery, solid-state cooling, and sustainable energy technologies. This position emphasizes the discovery and development of next-generation energy materials with high electrical and thermal transport performance through materials design, defect engineering, microstructure optimization, and advanced manufacturing approaches.
The research program will involve the synthesis and processing of thermoelectric and multifunctional materials, development of bulk and thin-film energy conversion materials, fabrication of prototype devices and modules, and detailed characterization of electrical, thermal, structural, and microstructural properties. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing interdisciplinary research programs involving advanced ceramics, intermetallic compounds, semiconductors, and emerging energy materials for terrestrial, aerospace, and defense applications.
The ideal candidate should have strong expertise and demonstrated research experience in thermoelectric materials, electronic transport phenomena, thermal transport, energy harvesting technologies, and advanced functional materials. A solid background in materials synthesis and processing techniques, including powder processing, spark plasma sintering (SPS), hot pressing, crystal growth, or related processing methods is required. Experience with transport property measurements, microstructural characterization, diffraction and microscopy techniques, and materials optimization through compositional and defect engineering is highly desirable. Experience with computational materials design, machine learning for materials discovery, or multifunctional energy materials will be considered an asset.
Responsibilities include conducting cutting-edge research in thermoelectric and energy conversion materials; leading materials synthesis, processing, characterization, and prototype device development; collaborating with faculty across Penn State and external research partners; and contributing to multidisciplinary research programs sponsored by federal agencies and industry. The successful candidate will also be expected to supervise and mentor postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, undergraduate researchers, and visiting scholars; contribute to proposal development and research program expansion; publish research findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals; and present research results at national and international conferences.
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field, with significant postdoctoral research experience in thermoelectric materials, energy conversion materials, or related functional materials. Candidates should demonstrate a strong publication record, evidence of research leadership, and the ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment.
Interested candidates should apply directly online and submit the following materials with their application:

• An application cover letter highlighting the relevant experience for the position.
• A curriculum vitae including educational background, employment history, and a list of publications, research projects worked on, and the role played in those projects.
• Contact information for three professional references.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
BENEFITS
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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