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Associate Research Engineer/CAER

University of Kentucky · Greater Lexington Area · 2 wk ago
Engineering$53k–$88k/yrFull-time

Job Summary

The Carbon Materials Group is seeking an Associate Research Engineer to conduct high quality research on a range of fiber materials – including conjugated polymeric fibers, bio-fibers, and a variety of carbon fibers. The successful candidate(s) will join (and may subsequently lead) a small team with primary responsibilities focused on one or more of the following:

  • Fiber spinning process trials (solution and melt spinning) to produce high quality fibers
  • Thermal conversion of fibers (i.e. to carbon fibers)
  • Systematic characterizations of materials

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:

  • Optical microscopy
  • SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy)
  • X-ray scattering
  • Gas pycnometry & density gradient column analysis
  • (High temperature) LFA thermal diffusivity
  • (High temperature) dilatometry for CTE
  • Single filament tensile testing
  • (High temperature) dilatometry for CTE
  • Several additional structural, mechanical, thermal and electrical property analyses of experimental materials.

Applicants for the position will preferably have advanced education (PhD preferred) 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. Drafting of research reports and manuscripts for publication will be part of the job. 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.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

  • Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials and composites processing
  • Knowledge of fiber and carbon materials characterization
  • The ability to record and keep accurate records and data
  • The knowledge of the form and style of research writing and presentation – including reporting to federal sponsors and drafting research manuscripts for publication

Physical Requirements

  • Standing or walking with objects up to 25lbs
  • Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods
  • Repetitive motion tasks
  • Job-related travel

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., occasional evenings and weekends.

Required Education

  • MS

Required Related Experience

  • No experience required.

Required License/Registration/Certification

  • None

Physical Requirements

  • Standing or walking with objects up to 25lbs
  • Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods
  • Repetitive motion tasks
  • Job-related travel

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., occasional evenings and weekends.

Salary Range

  • $53,061-87,526/year

Position Time Status

  • Full-Time

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

  • No

Preferred Education/Experience

  • PhD preferred

Deadline to Apply

  • 07/09/2026

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.
  • The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
  • 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.

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