Utk Student Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The research group of Prof. Weinan Xu in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to externally funded research in thermal interface materials and thermal management of batteries and electronics. This is a twelve-month appointment, renewable annually for up to two years based on performance and funds availability.
The successful candidate will lead and contribute to research projects at the intersection of polymer nanocomposites, biopolymers, 2D materials, thermal transport, and device thermal management. The candidate will work closely with collaborators in industry or other research groups. The position offers opportunities in shaping research directions, publishing in high-impact journals, mentoring graduate/undergraduate students, and attending professional conferences. The compensation package includes a competitive salary, health benefits, career mentoring, and travel support.
Responsibilities
The successful candidate will lead efforts in the design, synthesis, processing, and characterization of advanced thermal interface materials for energy and electronics applications. Responsibilities will include the preparation of nanomaterials and polymer nanocomposites, materials processing (e.g., mixing, controlled assembly, internal structural control) and characterization (thermal, mechanical, morphological, and electrical). The candidate will also work closely with collaborators on device-level testing and evaluation to assess the performance of thermal interface materials. This position provides opportunities to access advanced characterization and synthesis capabilities at national user facilities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering, or related degree program
• 3 years (including degree program) experience in design and fabrication of functional polymer composites, especially for thermal management, energy, and electronics applications.
• Experience with thermal properties characterization of materials and devices by various methods, including thermal conductivity measurement, DSC, TGA, etc.
• Knowledge of thermal management technologies in energy storage devices and electronics
• Strong communication, writing, and interpersonal skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced experience in synthesis and chemical modification of polymers, 2D nanomaterials, and nanocomposites.
• Experience with establishing processing-structure-property relationships of polymer composites for functional applications
• Familiar with thermal management in battery packs and related computational thermal modeling.

Work Location

• Location: Knoxville, TN
• Onsite
• The expected start date is September 1st, 2026.

Compensation and Benefits

• Anticipated hiring range: $75,024.
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions
Interested applicants should apply online with the following materials:

• Cover letter and
• Curriculum vitae, and also send these materials

Inquires may be sent to Prof Xu at wxu@utk.edu
About The Department
The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is a nationally recognized program dedicated to advancing education, research, and innovation in materials science and engineering. The department offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs and conducts cutting-edge research spanning advanced manufacturing, polymers and composites, biomaterials, electronic and functional materials, energy materials, structural materials, and materials characterization. MSE faculty maintain strong collaborations with industry, national laboratories, and academic institutions, particularly through UTK's close partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), one of the nation's premier research laboratories. Supported by state-of-the-art research facilities and a highly collaborative environment, the department is committed to developing the next generation of materials engineers and scientists while addressing critical technological challenges in energy, health, manufacturing, defense, and sustainability.
About Us
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.
The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
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