Postdoctoral Scholar (ISM)

Job Summary

The postdoctoral researcher will assist the faculty PI and Co-PIs in advancing materials and manufacturing processes in collaboration with research partners at DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory (ARL) and industry. The position focuses on additive manufacturing processes, including solid-state and fusion-based methods such as Additive Friction Stir Deposition (AFSD), cold spray, and laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), with an emphasis on establishing process–structure–property relationships through integrated experimental and modeling approaches. The successful candidate will design and conduct experiments, develop and implement analytical and numerical modeling approaches, and perform microstructural characterization to evaluate process–structure relationships in additively manufactured materials. Work will also include analysis of thermal and thermo-mechanical behavior, plastic deformation, and defect formation, as well as evaluation of process outcomes such as residual stress and distortion, particularly in large-format applications. Additional responsibilities include mentoring graduate students, collaborating with research partners, and disseminating results through peer-reviewed journal publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Candidates will also contribute to research proposal development and laboratory research activities. Funding will be renewed yearly, contingent upon performance and funding availability.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

• Strong publication record which reflects some combination of the following: Hands on experience with AM technologies, particularly AFSD, cold spray, and LPBF
• Strong background in materials science, including characterization techniques such as SEM, TEM, FIB, XRD, nano-indentation, etc.
• Experience with analytical/numerical thermal, thermo-mechanical, plastic deformation, and/or multi-physics modeling of manufacturing processes
• Experience modeling AM microstructure evolution, phase transformations, or defect generation
• Experience with multi-scale modeling across spatial and temporal domains, including residual stress and distortion in large-format structures
• Knowledge and/or experience with solid-state manufacturing processes, including friction stir processing and welding
• Knowledge and/or experience with subtractive manufacturing or heat treatment processes
• Familiarity with physics-informed or data-driven (AI/ML) manufacturing approaches
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative research environments

Physical Requirements

• Some standing or walking
• Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods
• Repetitive motion
• Lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 lbs.

Shift

Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm (40 hours/week)

Required Education

PhD in Engineering

Required Related Experience

see Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Required License/Registration/Certification

n/a

Position Time Status

Full-Time

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

No

Preferred Education/Experience

N/A

Deadline to Apply

09/30/2026

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 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.

Applicant Documents

• Curriculum Vita
• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Writing Sample
• Academic Transcript