Job Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

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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

AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Combustion Research Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Penn State is seeking a Summer 2026 graduate Research Assistant. This part-time position is backed by the Office of Naval Research as part of a multi-university team exploring the fundamental energy transfer and initiation process in energetic materials at the micro and nano scales.

Job Duties:

Design experimental facility for conducting microscale shock detonation experiments.
Develop and apply high-speed laser and multi-spectral imaging diagnostics.
Develop safe processing techniques and prepare inert and reactive micro-scale samples for use by PSU and other team members.

Requirements & Qualifications:

Knowledge of chemical kinetics and combustion theories.
Experience in experimental design and handling of reacting or energetic materials.
Proven experience with laser diagnostics.
Effective communicator.
Commitment to safety standards in handling hazardous, reactive, and energetic materials
Previous experience in similar research settings and topics.
M.S. in relevant field (i.e., Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering), with significant research experience with related diagnostic systems.

Please submit resume/CV along with a short research statement/cover letter highlighting your experience and expertise with relevant materials and processes Applications will be evaluated immediately, with selection and hiring of a highly qualified candidate made as soon as practicable. This position is 100% in-person at the labs at University Park campus locations.

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.

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