Research Scientist I

Position Title

Research Scientist I

Professional & Scientific

• Bachelor’s degree

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering is seeking a Research Scientist I to conduct research on polymeric thin films for applications in thermal management, lubricants, and patterning. This role will independently perform polymer synthesis, characterization, photocrosslinking, chemical etching, nanofabrication, and thermal transport studies with minimal direction from the PI. The position will also prepare research reports and publications, assist with research proposals, and present findings  Research Scientist I will help maintain a safe, organized, and functional laboratory by following EHS requirements, developing SOPs, managing laboratory supplies, and training lab personnel.

The position will mentor and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in polymer synthesis, thermal transport, photocrosslinking, and nanofabrication, while providing regular updates on student performance and responsibilities.

This is a term position with an end date of August 31, 2029, with the potential for renewal based on funding availability.

• Thermal transport of polymer thin films
• Nanofabricating crosslinked polymer thin films
• Develop solid lubricants
• Develop ablative materials
• PhD in Polymer Chemistry

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering advances research and education focused on the development, characterization, and application of materials that address real-world challenges. Through interdisciplinary research and collaboration, the department explores innovative materials and technologies while providing students with opportunities to engage in hands‑on research. Faculty, researchers, and students work together in a collaborative environment to advance materials science and engineering across a range of applications.

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work‑life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long‑term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers Work Flex options for some positions
• Work Flex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work

Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
August 31, 2029

Number of Months Employed Per Year: 12

Month Work Period Time Type:
Part time

Pay Grade: PS807

Original Posting Date:
August 19, 2026

Posting Close Date:
August 26, 2026

Job Requisition Number: R19787

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran.

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran.

All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check and/or a consumer credit check.

Iowa State University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should email employment or call  or Toll-Free: .

Located just 30 minutes north of Des Moines, the city of Ames was recently named one of the Top 10 cities in the U.S. for campus life and career opportunities. Iowa State University is a welcoming community of students, faculty, and staff. Campus community members have a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and are committed to engaging with each other respectfully as outlined in the university's Principles of Community.

Iowa State recognizes that diverse intellectual and philosophical perspectives are vital to innovation, critical thinking skills, and a dynamic academic community that fosters the land-grant ideals of putting science, technology, and human creativity to work.