Penn State is recruiting a postdoc to focus on jump-starting new research with our newly acquired Xenocs SAXS system.
The full position posting and application details are here:
Please get in touch with Mike Hickner (mah49@psu.edu), Enrique Gomez (e dgomez@psu.edu), or Rob Hickey (rjh64@psu.edu) for more details.
Description
The Materials Characterization Laboratory (MCL) X-ray scattering group at Pennsylvania State University is currently seeking candidates for the position of postdoctoral scholar in conjunction with the research groups of Enrique Gomez, Michael A. Hickner, and Robert Hickey. The position requires a Ph.D., preferably in polymer science or a closely related field, and will primarily support the needs of polymer science and soft materials faculty engaged in small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) research at MCL. Preferred candidates should have significant knowledge in quantitative soft matter x-ray scattering analysis. Candidates familiar with polymeric characterization techniques like electron microscopy and mechanical analysis are of interest. The successful candidate will play a primary role in the commissioning, hands-on operation, and technique development of a newly purchased SAXS system. The ability to plan, execute, interpret, summarize, and publish research results within a collaborative environment with faculty groups is essential. Good communication skills are important and teaching skills are highly desired. Sample project areas include block copolymer composites, ionic polymers, conducting polymers, rheo-SAXS, and bio-synthetic hybrid materials. To be considered for this position, applicants should submit a curriculum vitae and a cover letter that includes a summary of relevant work experience and reasons for interest in the job, along with contact information for three professional references (name, position title, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address). This is a fixed-term appointment funded for one year from date of hire. The MCL is a professionally staffed shared instrumentation facility supports researchers from >40 PSU departments and ~100 external organizations each year. MCL researchers are engaged in a variety of activities that support basic and applied research, outreach, and education. Individual staff responsibilities are most often dedicated to the support of one or more analytical instruments that define the core capabilities of the facility.