Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Materials Science and Engineering - UTK

Postdoctoral Research Associate Position – Refractory Compositionally Complex Alloys

The University of Tennessee is pleased to announce an immediate opening for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the area of refractory compositionally complex alloy (RCCA) development. This position is part of the Center for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing (CAMM), an NSF Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC).

This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon the continued funding of the grant.

The successful candidate will lead efforts in the bulk synthesis, processing, and scale-up of RCCAs designed for use in extreme temperature and irradiation environments. Responsibilities will include the preparation of high-purity alloy ingots using arc melting and powder metallurgical approaches, thermomechanical processing (e.g., forging, rolling, or extrusion), and coordination of mechanical property testing at elevated temperatures. The candidate will also work closely with collaborators on irradiation testing and post-irradiation evaluation to assess the performance of RCCAs under extreme conditions.

This position provides opportunities to engage in AI/ML-aided alloy design, integrate experimental results with modeling workflows, and access advanced characterization and synthesis capabilities at national user facilities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (candidates nearing completion of their Ph.D. will also be considered);
• Experience with refractory metals or high-temperature alloys, including synthesis, processing, and property evaluation;
• Strong communication skills and a record of peer-reviewed publications;
• Ability to work collaboratively in large, interdisciplinary teams;
• Leadership qualities and interest in mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers.

The candidate will work under the guidance of Professors Eric Lass and Steve Zinkle at the University of Tennessee and will play a leading role in the alloy development thrust of CAMM.

Salary is expected to start at $70,656 depending on experience. The expected start date is December 1^st, 2025.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville offers competitive benefits. More information is found:

https://hr.tennessee.edu/benefits/insurance/

Interested applicants should apply online with a cover letter and curriculum vitae, and also send these materials to elass@utk.edu and szinkle@utk.edu.