Research Assistant - Mechanical Engineering

Reference #: REQ0000048847

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

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.JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Penn State Behrend, under the guidance of Assistant Professor Dr. Jiawei Gong, invites applications for a part-time Research Assistant (RA) position in the Mechanical Engineering department.This role offers the opportunity to contribute to one of two research projects: the synthesis of efficient metal-layered double hydroxides using ammonium-based compounds for energy storage applications in collaboration with Dr. Luyin Lin's group at NTUT, or the inverse design of perovskite solar cells using physics-informed machine learning techniques. Students from a variety of academic backgrounds, including but not limited to Device Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, Statistics, and Computer Science, are welcome to apply. The position is open to all degree levels, including exchange students from any institute and OPT/CPT students.Hours and Compensation:The position will be 25 hours per week, for a total of 52 weeks, with an hourly rate of $17. The renewal of the position will be contingent upon future funding availability.Key Responsibilities:

Assist in designing and conducting experiments pertinent to either energy storage synthesis or perovskite solar cell design based on the selected project. Depending on the chosen project:

Participate in in-house material synthesis, characterization, and the assembly and measurement of energy storage devices.

or, apply physics-informed machine learning techniques for the inverse design of perovskite solar cells.Conduct in-depth physical analysis, including synchrotron radiation, for the energy storage project. Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental and computational data using statistical tools. Conduct comprehensive literature reviews pertinent to the research area. Prepare and maintain detailed records, logs, and summary reports of all experiments and results. Collaborate with the research team to prepare and publish research findings in scientific journals and conference proceedings. Coordinate with all members of the research team to ensure that project deadlines and quality standards are met.Qualifications:

Enrollment or degree in Mechanical Engineering, Device Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, Statistics, Computer Science, or a closely related field. Pursuit of or completion of a Master's degree or PhD in a relevant field is highly desirable. Previous experience in engineering research, specifically in energy storage or solar cell technology, depending on the chosen project. Proficiency in engineering software and databases (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB), and/or machine learning tools for the solar cell project. Demonstrated ability to manage, analyze, and interpret complex data sets. Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, and computational skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a research team.Application Process:

Interested applicants should submit a resume, a cover letter detailing their choice of project, relevant experience, and interest in the position. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.Working Conditions:

This Research Assistant position may involve working in a general office environment, a mechanical engineering lab, or remotely, de ending on the specific requirements of the research project. Some after-hours work may be required to meet project deadlines.The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancingdiversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individualuniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversityinitiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society andnature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a corestrength and an essential element of our public service mission.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.Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.EEO IS THE LAWFederal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Affirmative Action

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines

Erie, PAPenn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action 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 814-865-1473.Qualified candidates may apply by clicking, "Apply Now". Next, submit your resume. You may complete a cover letter on the following screen. You must contact the employer via one of the methods listed on the screen after clicking "Apply for this job". Please be sure to identify PA CareerLink as your referral source.