Research Assistant - Materials Science and Engineering
Job in
Rolla, Phelps County, Missouri, 65402, USA
Listed on 2026-06-03
Listing for:
University of Missouri System
Full Time
position Listed on 2026-06-03
Job specializations:
-
Engineering
Research Scientist, Mechanical Engineer, Materials Engineer, Process Engineer -
Research/Development
Research Scientist
Job Description & How to Apply Below
Hiring Department
Materials Science and Engineering
Job Description
We are seeking a motivated Post-Baccalaureate Research Associate to join our Advanced Ceramics & Ultra-High Temperature Materials Group. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research on ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs), with applications spanning hypersonic aerospace systems and next-generation nuclear reactors. This is an excellent opportunity for a recently graduated student to deepen their experimental skills and gain hands-on research experience in a dynamic laboratory environment.
Research Areas
The research associate will contribute to two primary areas:
* Oxidation resistance, mechanical and thermal properties of ZrB2, ZrC, based ceramics.
* Investigation of W2B5 ceramics for nuclear fusion reactor applications.
Key Responsibilities
Processing & Fabrication
* Synthesize and process UHTC powders (ZrB2, ZrC, ZrB2-SiC, W2B5) using established powder processing routes.
* Perform densification of ceramics via sintering techniques (e.g., spark plasma sintering, hot pressing).
Sample Preparation
* Prepare and machine sintered specimens to prescribed geometries for mechanical property testing (e.g., flexural strength bars, hardness coupons, fracture toughness specimens).
* Polish specimens for microstructural analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), including cross-sections of oxidized or thermally exposed samples.
* Crush and sieve powders and prepare mounts for X-ray diffraction (XRD) phase analysis.
Mechanical Testing
* Conduct mechanical property measurements including hardness (Vickers/Knoop), flexural strength, and fracture toughness on dense ceramic specimens.
* Support elevated-temperature mechanical testing as required by individual projects.
* Document test conditions, load-displacement data, and failure observations with rigor.
Characterization
* Operate or assist in the operation of SEM for microstructural imaging and EDS compositional analysis of as-sintered, oxidized, and mechanically tested specimens.
* Perform XRD measurements for phase identification and semi-quantitative phase analysis; assist with data reduction and interpretation.
* Support thermal property measurements (e.g., thermal diffusivity/conductivity) and oxidation resistance testing.
General
* Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to progress reports and publications.
* Uphold laboratory safety standards and comply with all relevant safety protocols.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in Materials Science & Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, or a closely related field (recently conferred).
* Hands-on experience with powder processing and sintering of advanced ceramics.
* Proficiency in sample preparation for SEM (metallographic polishing) and XRD (powder crushing and sieving).
* Familiarity with mechanical property testing of ceramics or brittle materials.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
* Strong attention to detail and commitment to laboratory safety.
Preferred Qualifications
* Familiarity with refractory ceramics or boride/carbide ceramic systems.
* Experience operating SEM or analyzing XRD data (e.g., Rietveld refinement, phase quantification).
* Exposure to high-temperature testing techniques for mechanical and thermal properties.
* Interest in nuclear materials or hypersonic thermal protection systems.
Final date to receive applications
Posted until filled
Community Information
University Information
Missouri S&T is one of the nation's leading research universities with over 100-degree programs in 39 disciplines. It was founded in 1870 as one of the first technological institutions west of the Mississippi River. Located about 100 miles west of St. Louis in the vibrant community of Rolla, Missouri S&T is an accessible, safe, and friendly campus surrounded by Ozarks' scenery.
Missouri S&T offers undergraduate degrees in engineering, the sciences, liberal arts, humanities, and business, with M.S. and Ph.D. programs available in many of the science and engineering programs. With over 7,000 students and 300 faculty, Missouri S&T is big enough to accommodate a broad…
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