Postdoctoral Research Associate - Mechanical Engineering - Advanced Modeling & Testing of Com...
University of Massachusetts Lowell

Job no: 516843
Position type: Staff Full Time
Campus: UMass Lowell
Department: Mechanical & Industrial Engin
Salary: Salary commensurate with experience and grant
Applications Open: Dec 01 2022
Applications Close: Open until filled

General Summary of Position:

The successful candidate will use computational tools at different length scales, including molecular-,micro- and mecro-level to simulate the mechanical behavior of composite structures from manufacturing to in-service performance. Different optimization techniques will be employed in assisting the design of materials and devices to achieve high efficiency and low environmental impact. The initial appointment will be for one year with a possibility of renewal based on productivity and performance and the availability of funding.

Essential Job Duties:

1. Conduct computational research under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI). Specifically, it includes:

• Formulating multiscale models for fiber-reinforced composites accounting for manufacturing.
• Designing, developing, and validating computational tools.
• Manufacturing of composites.
• Performing DMA, DSC, TMA, mechanical testing.
• Designing and performing computational simulations, evaluating and analyzing results, and deriving an understanding of underlying phenomena.
• Prepare status reports and deliverables in collaboration with and under the direction of the PI, on time and to the highest standard.

2. Assist the supervisor in writing scholarly articles and research proposals:

• The successful candidate will be expected to assist in the preparation of graphics and text for articles and proposals (including data interpretation and analysis, plotting, graphical design).
• The successful candidate will be expected to publish at least 2 articles per year in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

3. Attend Meetings related to the research projects:

• Conduct weekly group meeting between PI, Post-Docs, and students.

Promote the University's commitment to customer service by:

• Build effective partnerships with co-workers throughout the University by freely sharing appropriate information and providing assistance when needed.
• Ensuring optimum service to all internal and external partners in response to all requests for service and information.
• Maintaining an environment that is welcoming to persons of all backgrounds, nationalities, and roles.

Other Job Duties:

1. Performs other related duties as assigned.

• This role may involve occasional travel that may involve overnight or day travel.

Minimum Qualifications (Required):

Education:

• Ph.D. in Engineering or related area. Experience: MATLAB, Fortran, Python, C++, Abaqus, Other FEM packages (COMSOL, ANSYS, NASTRAN, CUF)

Skills:

• Computer programming, numerical methods for engineering, Finite Element Method (FEM)
• Deep understanding of solid mechanics and fracture mechanics. Knowledge of higher-order FEM is highly valued but not required
• Scientific and interpersonal communication (individual and group meetings, presentations, written reports, journal publications, etc.).

Additional Considerations:

• Should demonstrate a minimum number of at least 2 publications in the field
• Ability to work independently, with limited direction, as well as within a team environment

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Only current UML Employees within the Grants & Contracts (MTA/GRACE) bargaining unit will be considered during the first 10 business days of the posting. All other candidates will be considered after that period.

Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. However, the position may close when an adequate number of qualified applications is received.

This position is contingent upon funding. The initial appointment will be for one year with a possibility of renewal based on productivity, successful performance and the availability of funding.

Please include a resume and cover letter with your application. Names and contact information of three references will be required during the application process. Submission of a publication list, research statement and publications in peer-reviewed journals is optional.