Research Scientist III

Position Title:

Research Scientist III

Professional & Scientific

Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience

The Center for Nondestructive Evaluation (CNDE) at Iowa State University is seeking a Research Scientist III to lead and support innovative research in experimental ultrasonics and nondestructive evaluation (NDE). This role will focus on developing and conducting ultrasonic measurements and imaging techniques using immersion, contact, and non‑contact transducers to address real‑world challenges across a variety of industries. The successful candidate will collaborate with industry sponsors, government partners, faculty, researchers, and students to advance ultrasonic NDE technologies and microstructure characterization methods.

The Research Scientist III will lead experimental research efforts, develop sponsored research proposals, design and validate experiments, analyze results, and publish findings in scholarly journals and conferences. Additional responsibilities include mentoring students, managing and upgrading ultrasonic laboratory equipment, supporting instructional activities, engaging with sponsors and professional organizations, and helping shape future research directions for CNDE. This position requires strong technical expertise, the ability to work independently, and a commitment to advancing the field of ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation.

• Demonstrated experience in the basic theory of ultrasonic methods and wave propagation for a wide range of materials for a variety of NDE applications including imaging and materials characterization
• Demonstrated experience with ultrasonic measurement hardware, including transducers, motion‑control systems, robots, or drones
• Experience with project management
• High working knowledge and experience with various relevant ultrasonic measurement equipment
• M.S. degree (or higher) in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, materials engineering, or a closely related field
• Ability to work on projects with access restrictions.

The Center for Nondestructive Evaluation (CNDE) at Iowa State University is a leading research center focused on advancing nondestructive evaluation science and technology. CNDE partners with industry and government to develop innovative inspection and sensing solutions that improve the safety, reliability, and performance of critical materials and systems. The center brings together interdisciplinary experts to solve complex engineering challenges and translate research into practical applications across industries such as aerospace, energy, manufacturing, and defense.

To learn more visit the CNDE Website.

This is a term position with an end date of June 30, 2028, with the potential for renewal based on funding availability.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of Application/Cover Letter

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. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment, or call 515‑294‑4800 or Toll Free: 1‑877‑477‑7485.

Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)

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