Part-Time Research Assistant Shock Detonation Mechanical Engineering
Job Location:
University Park, IL - USA
Monthly Salary:
Posted:
Application Deadline:
Vacancies:
Job Summary
- CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty staff technical service or student) please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here apply internally through Workday.
- CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here apply internally through Workday.
- If you are NOT a current employee or student please click Apply and complete the application process for external applicants.
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work additional information on remote work at Penn State seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Combustion Research Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Penn State is seeking a Summer 2026 graduate Research Assistant. This part-time position is backed by the Office of Naval Research as part of a multi-university team exploring the fundamental energy transfer and initiation process in energetic materials at the micro and nano scales.
Job Duties:
- Design experimental facility for conducting microscale shock detonation experiments.
- Develop and apply high-speed laser and multi-spectral imaging diagnostics.
- Develop safe processing techniques and prepare inert and reactive micro-scale samples for use by PSU and other team members.
Requirements & Qualifications:
- Knowledge of chemical kinetics and combustion theories.
- Experience in experimental design and handling of reacting or energetic materials.
- Proven experience with laser diagnostics.
- Effective communicator.
- Commitment to safety standards in handling hazardous reactive and energetic materials
- Previous experience in similar research settings and topics.
- M.S. in relevant field (i.e. Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering) with significant research experience with related diagnostic systems.
Please submit resume/CV along with a short research statement/cover letter highlighting your experience and expertise with relevant materials and processes. Applications will be evaluated immediately with selection and hiring of a highly qualified candidate made as soon as practicable. This position is 100% in-person at the labs at University Park campus locations.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988 Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security such as those concerning alcohol and drug use crime prevention the reporting of crimes sexual assault and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race color religion age sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability please contact .
Required Experience:
Junior IC
About Company
Penn State is a major, public, research-I university serving Pennsylvania and the global community. Learn more about our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs.
