Student Research Material Engineer
ARCTOS is seeking a part-time (<20 hrs/wk) Student Research Material Scientist to work on thermoset polymer matrix composite (PMC) formulation and testing. The candidate will conduct basic research to formulate, cure, test, and analyze PMCs for Air Force applications.
The candidate will work as part of an interdisciplinary research team in the Composites Branch within the Materials and Manufacturing Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. The candidate is expected to collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to publish peer-reviewed scientific articles and aid in the development of technologies for U.S. national security interests.
The desired candidate will have a strong background in formulation, processing, and characterization of thermoset PMCs. Ideally, the candidate will have experience working particle-reinforced PMCs, such as nanofilled epoxies. The candidate will perform thermomechanical testing of PMCs using rheometry, TMA, DMA, TGA, DSC, optical and electron microscopy, FTIR, and X-ray scattering techniques. The ability to tune the composition and processing parameters to intelligently develop structure-property relationships is desired. Excellent oral and written communication skills are a prerequisite for employment. The successful candidate will be self-motivated and capable of working independently, as well as an effective collaborator with researchers from different technical backgrounds.
Job Responsibilities
• Design, formulate, and cure thermoset polymer matrix composites.
• Perform thermomechanical testing of material parts according to ASTM standards.
• Develop novel cure cycles and elucidate curing mechanisms for thermoset PMCs.
• Develop structure-property relationships between formulations and thermomechanical properties.
• Summarize research findings in technical reports, manuscripts, and presentations.
Qualifications
• US citizenship is required.
• Current student (B.S. or M.S.) in materials science, materials engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated success in formulation and thermomechanical characterization of thermoset polymer matrix composite materials.
• Research publications in peer-reviewed journals and professional society conference presentations are a plus.
ARCTOS is an Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disabled Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.