Summary
The University of Kentucky is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Scholar position at the Institute for Sustainable Manufacturing, Pigman College of Engineering. The position focuses on advanced machining, in-situ process characterization, materials characterization, and process modelling of difficult-to-machine materials, including ceramic matrix composites (CMCs), tungsten, and refractory alloys. The successful candidate will contribute to a large funded research project involving high-throughput manufacturing and advanced experimental techniques. The tentative appointment period is January 2027 to March 2028.
Postdoctoral Research Scholar Position in Advanced Machining & Materials Characterization – University of Kentucky, USA
Job Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Postdoctoral Research Scholar |
| Institution | University of Kentucky |
| College | Pigman College of Engineering |
| Research Institute | Institute for Sustainable Manufacturing |
| Location | Kentucky, USA |
| Research Area | Mechanical Engineering, Advanced Machining, Materials Science, Manufacturing Technology |
| Position Duration | January 2027 – March 2028 |
| Application Mode | Email Application |
| Contact Email | julius.schoop@uky.edu |
Designation
Postdoctoral Research Scholar
Research Area
- Advanced Machining and Manufacturing Science
- Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs)
- Tungsten and Refractory Alloys
- In-situ Process Characterization
- Materials Characterization and Microstructural Analysis
- Tool Wear, Tribology, and Chip Formation
- Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV)
- Physics-Based Process Modelling and Optimization
Location
Institute for Sustainable Manufacturing, Pigman College of Engineering, University of Kentucky, Kentucky, USA.
Eligibility / Qualification
- Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong experimental research experience in machining science and materials characterization.
- Experience in tool-wear analysis, high-speed imaging, digital image correlation (DIC), particle image velocimetry (PIV), microscopy, and microstructural analysis is highly desirable.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research.
- Ability to contribute to the supervision and mentoring of graduate and undergraduate students.
- Strong research communication skills and a record of publishing findings in high-quality peer-reviewed journals.
Job Description / Responsibilities
The selected candidate will contribute to and coordinate research activities within the research team, focusing on the following areas:
- Advanced Machining: Investigate chip formation, tribology, tool wear, and machining-induced surface integrity in ceramic matrix composites and refractory metals. Explore ultrasonic-assisted machining and advanced cooling and lubrication strategies, including high-pressure coolant techniques.
- In-situ Process Characterization: Utilize high-speed optical and thermal imaging, along with digital image analysis, to quantify deformation, strain, strain rate, and temperature fields during machining operations.
- Materials Characterization: Establish structure–property–performance correlations for machined workpieces and develop novel cutting-tool designs.
- Process Modelling: Develop physics-based and sensor-informed process design and optimization strategies to improve productivity, tool life, and surface integrity.
The position also provides opportunities to access specialized experimental facilities and collaborate with national laboratories and industrial partners.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should directly contact the recruiting professor by email and submit:
- An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A brief summary of relevant research experience.
- Details of mentorship and student-supervision experience.
Application Email: julius.schoop@uky.edu
Institution: University of Kentucky – Pigman College of Engineering
Research Institute: Institute for Sustainable Manufacturing
Last Date for Apply
Until position filled
Tentative Position Duration: January 2027 – March 2028.
