Research Associate - UL Fire and Combustion Labs Dr. Liao – Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department
- Glennan Building

Sep 25, 2026

The Research Associate will conduct research under the direction of a faculty Principal Investigator within the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, supporting the development of a next-generation experimental platform for fire science research. This project focuses on designing, prototyping, and validating an advanced experimental system that will enable fire safety research for the emerging era of commercial low Earth orbit (LEO) space vehicles and habitats.

The successful candidate will work at the intersection of fire science, thermal-fluid sciences, spacecraft safety, and experimental system design, contributing to the development of innovative testing capabilities for future space missions. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to pioneering research that will help establish the scientific foundation for fire safety in the next generation of commercial space transportation and habitation systems.

Case Western Reserve University, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering is seeking a qualified candidate to fill a postdoctoral fellow position. This is a one-year appointment with the possibility of renewing for an additional year.

This is a full-time position requiring a 40-hour work week. The successful candidate will be expected to perform the following duties, including but not limited to:

• Meet regularly with the Principal Investigator (PI), including participation in a formal one-hour weekly research meeting. (10%)
• Design, develop, and integrate experimental prototypes for next-generation fire science research platforms. (35%)
• Conduct experimental testing, operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation, and analyze experimental data. (15%)
• Prepare technical reports, conference papers, and peer-reviewed journal publications. (10%)
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, engineers, and external partners from academia, government, and industry. (10%)

• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the research mission (5%)
• Contribute to research planning, proposal development, and other activities that support the overall success of the research program. (5%)
• Ensure compliance with university, sponsor, and safety requirements (5%)
• Mentor junior researchers in the laboratory and assist with coordinating day-to-day laboratory operations. (5%)

• May provide training or mentorship to the Research Associate.

General laboratory and research environment. May require travel for conferences, sponsor meetings, field research activities, or collaboration with partner institutions. May require occasional evening or weekend work to meet project or sponsor deadlines

In compliance with the City of Cleveland’s Pay Transparency Ordinance (effective

October 27, 2025), the annual starting base salary range for this position is from $52,000 – $80,000. CWRU considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant, as well as the scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal peer equity. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and paid time off.

• Education
  - PhD or other terminal degree in engineering or a closely related field and
• Experience - 0–3 years…