Research Technician - Poudel Group - Materials Science and Engineering

Role details

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 . Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.

For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants . JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Penn State University is seeking a motivated, hands-on Research Technician to support ongoing research in thermoelectric materials and device development. The successful candidate will assist with materials synthesis, powder processing, bulk consolidation, device fabrication, and performance characterization.

This position offers an opportunity to gain practical experience with advanced materials processing techniques and thermoelectric technologies for power generation and thermal management applications. Job duties include: Assist in the synthesis and preparation of thermoelectric materials, including alloy preparation, powder processing, mixing, and milling. Perform materials consolidation and processing using techniques such as spark plasma sintering (SPS), hot pressing, and extrusion. Support thermoelectric device fabrication, including sample cutting, polishing, metallization, bonding, and module assembly.

Conduct materials characterization and device performance testing, including electrical and thermal transport measurements. Assist with testing of thermoelectric modules for power generation and cooling applications. Maintain laboratory equipment, document experimental procedures, organize data, and assist with analysis of experimental results. Follow established laboratory safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized research environment.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related field. Basic understanding of materials synthesis, processing, and characterization. Interest in hands-on experimental research and laboratory equipment operation. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment. Good organizational, documentation, and communication skills.

Compensation

The starting rate for this job is $19/hr. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 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 . EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity 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. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging.

We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines