Hiring Department
Material Science and Engineering
Job Description
Position Overview: The advanced ceramics and composites research group at Missouri S&T invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate specializing in ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs) and ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research programs focused on boride- and carbide-based monolithic and fiber-reinforced ceramic systems, including high entropy ceramic compositions, for extreme-environment applications. Research Areas: The postdoctoral associate will participate in research spanning:
- Monolithic UHTC borides and carbides: processing, densification, and property evaluation
- Fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) incorporating UHTC matrices and coatings
- High entropy ceramic (HEC) design and development for extreme-environment applications
- Powder synthesis and advanced sintering of UHTC compositions
- High-temperature oxidation and ablation testing and analysis
- Microstructural characterization using electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and diffraction techniques
- Mechanical and thermal property evaluation across temperature ranges relevant to hypersonic and aerospace applications
Responsibilities:
- Design and execute experimental research plans independently and in collaboration with the PI and group members
- Synthesize and process ceramic powders and fabricate monolithic and composite specimens
- Perform comprehensive characterization and property measurements and interpret results
- Conduct and analyze high-temperature oxidation and environmental testing experiments
- Prepare technical reports, manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and presentations for conferences
- Assist in writing grant proposals and progress reports to sponsors
- Co-mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers within the group
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- PhD in Materials Science and Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, or a closely related field, conferred within the past three years
- Demonstrated experience with ceramic powder synthesis and processing
- Proficiency in advanced sintering techniques (e.g., spark plasma sintering, hot pressing, pressureless sintering)
- Hands-on experience with microstructural characterization methods (SEM, EDS, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, TEM)
- Experience with mechanical property testing (hardness, flexural strength, fracture toughness) and thermal property measurements (thermal diffusivity/conductivity)
- Experience with high-temperature oxidation testing and post-exposure analysis
- Strong record of peer-reviewed publications and scientific communication
Preferred Qualifications:
- Background in ultra-high temperature ceramics (ZrB2, HfB2, ZrC, HfC, or related systems)
- Experience with high entropy ceramic compositions
- Familiarity with fiber-reinforced CMC fabrication and characterization
- Experience with ablation or arc-jet testing environments
- Ability to work independently and mentor graduate and undergraduate students
Community Information
University Information
Missouri S&T is one of the nation's leading research universities with over 100-degree programs in 39 disciplines. It was founded in 1870 as one of the first technological institutions west of the Mississippi River. Located about 100 miles west of St. Louis in the vibrant community of Rolla, Missouri S&T is an accessible, safe, and friendly campus surrounded by Ozarks' scenery. Missouri S&T offers undergraduate degrees in engineering, the sciences, liberal arts, humanities, and business, with M.S. and Ph.D. programs available in many of the science and engineering programs. With over 7,000 students and 300 faculty, Missouri S&T is big enough to accommodate a broad population, yet small enough for individuals to build high visibility and impactful careers. COLLEGE of ENGINEERING & COMPUTING (CEC)
Missouri S&T's College of Engineering and Computing is the largest of three colleges at S&T, accounting for approximately 80% of the total enrollment (about 4,500 undergraduates and 800 graduate students). The college includes more than 170 ranked faculty members who serve in 16 undergraduate programs, all with master's and doctoral equivalents organized into nine academic departments. The college recently added a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering and a Ph.D. in bioengineering, both starting in fall 2024. Missouri S&T, supported by the College of Engineering and Computing, is nationally recognized for its career outcomes and ROI. About Rolla
Rolla, Missouri offers several great advantages that help individuals enjoy a high quality of life. Rolla is an ideal place for families, with its low cost of living, excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a range of recreational activities suitable for all ages. The Ozark Scenic Riverways and beautiful landscapes offers abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of every lifestyle. With its vibrant community, Rolla hosts multiple events, concerts, art exhibitions, and theater performances throughout the year. The university's Leach Theatre showcases nationally renowned performers for campus and community alike. Overall, living in Rolla offers a high quality of life with a supportive community, affordable living, beautiful natural surroundings, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Benefit Eligibility
This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 573-341-7734.
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Missouri University of Science and Technology
May 19, 2026