Principal Mechanical Research Engineer

Apply now Job No: 503666

Work Type: Staff Full Time (1500 hours or greater)

Location: Dayton, OH

Category: Research Institute Staff

Department: Impact Physics - 250534

Pay Grade: R4 - Exempt

Advertised: June 24, 2026

Applications close: July 07, 2026

UDRI is a national leader in scientific and engineering research, serving government, industry and nonprofit customers. We are seeking candidates that are well versed in Shock Physics, Laser Metrology, Materials Physics, and material behavior under impact. Join our cutting‑edge team and apply today!

Candidate will utilize Photon Doppler Velocimetry (PDV) measurement techniques to obtain material properties and surface velocities post‑impact. The candidate will market PDV measurement techniques to gain new customers and expand Impact Physics Group capabilities, support erosion research efforts at AFRL, and provide support with Hypervelocity Impact testing using two‑ and three‑stage light‑gas guns, high‑strain‑rate testing, and bird‑strike/FOD testing.

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10 years of directly related experience.
• Familiarity with the setup, operation and maintenance of PDV systems.
• Experience investigating material properties under extreme conditions – high strain rate or temperature and/or radiation.
• Experience operating powder and gas guns.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• U.S. citizenship is required due to federal research contracts.

• Experience in nuclear survivability testing.
• Experience in the design and execution of experiments to study Equation of State.
• Experience with experimental techniques to measure dynamic yield strength and spall strength.
• Understanding of material properties for advanced composites, thermally sprayed materials, and additively manufactured materials.
• Mechanical testing across a range of strain‑rates.
• Knowledge of materials and testing methods used for hypersonics.
• Understanding of radiation‑material interaction, including lasers and X‑rays.

To apply, please submit a cover letter addressing each minimum qualification and any applicable preferred qualifications that you meet.

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the dignity of every human being. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity in all of its forms, achieve fair outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. The University is committed to policies of affirmative action designed to increase the employment opportunities of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1973.