JOB TITLE
Research Scientist
LOCATION
Worcester
DEPARTMENT NAME
Mechanical Engineering NFR JM
DIVISION NAME
Worcester Polytechnic Institute WPI
JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY
We are seeking a highly skilled and driven individual with expertise in materials science and mechanical engineering to lead a project in materials and structures for extreme environments. This initiative is a collaborative venture between aerospace corporate partners and a multidisciplinary team of researchers at WPI with the goal of developing novel coating technologies to enhance the durability and reliability of engine blade components. The Research Scientist position will involve designing methodology/setups and conducting experiments that will contribute to the development of novel thermal barrier coatings for advanced turbine airfoils. The candidate should be prepared to work in a fastpaced environment which requires regular reports and presentations to research sponsors.
WPI is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. We encourage applications from candidates who can support our commitment to equity diversity and inclusion.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Responsibilities
- Design experimental methodology/setups for thermal gradient testing of thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) in engine turbine blades under high temperatures and aggressive environments
- Conduct spallation life testing of TBCs under a thermal gradient to assess the effect of factors such as temperature cycle and loading conditions on the life of TBCs
- Serve as a technical and programmatic liaison to engineers and scientists at our corporate partners on the development of testing methods and conducting testing of TBCs
- Coordinate with the research team at WPI on experimental investigations and modeling to quantify mechanical and interfacial behavior of TBCs
- Coordinate with the research team at WPI for experimental investigations and modeling of thermomechanical fatigue of superalloys used in engine turbine blades
- Train personnel (graduate students postdoctoral fellows corporate researchers on testing methods analysis and characterization
- Collaborate with WPI faculty from various departments to deliver technical results and progress in the form of technical reports publications and presentations
Required Skills
- Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering Mechanical Engineering Aerospace Engineering Applied Physics or related fields
- Practical knowledge of design of experimental setups and standard lab practices
- Experience in experimental mechanics (in particular mechanical testing thermal and environmental testing and basic material characterization (SEM TEM EBSD)
- Ability to work independently and in large multidisciplinary teams
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
Desired Skills
- Experience designing building and conducting experiments that involve combustion and high temperature
- Experience with data acquisition instrumentation and/or signal conditioning
- Experience in the mechanical and thermal testing of coatings/thin films
- Basic knowledge of mechanics of materials (thermomechanical fatigue creep fracture mechanics) interface adhesion testing and life predictions
- Basic knowledge of numerical modeling and finite element software
Required Documents
- Cover Letter / Statement of Interest
- Curriculum Vitae
- List of References
FLSA STATUS
United States of America (Exempt)
WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employerthat actively seeks to increase the diversityof its workplace. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color age religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin veteran statusor disability. It seeks individuals withdiverse backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity collaboration inclusion problem solving innovation high performance and change making.It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.