Job Description

The Research Associate will conduct research under the direction of a faculty Principal Investigator within the Root Laboratory in the Department of Macromolecular Science and Engineering.

The Research Associate will lead the experimental development of optical imaging methods for measuring the micromechanics of self-healing polymers and dynamic polymer multilayers, supported by an Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation Young Investigator Award. The position centers on designing, building, and operating custom instrumentation that employs both laser speckle imaging and optical coherence tomography along with in-situ mechanical loading and thermal annealing. These tools will be applied to understand how healing, fracture, and interfacial adhesion evolve in dynamic covalent and supramolecular polymer networks. The Research Associate works with a high degree of independence under the general direction of the Principal Investigator, mentors graduate and undergraduate researchers, and contributes to publications, presentations, and proposals. Expected outcomes include a validated in-situ imaging platform, peer-reviewed publications on the micromechanics of self-healing multilayers, and preliminary data supporting future proposals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Design, construct, align, and validate custom optical instrumentation for dynamic speckle imaging and optical coherence tomography of polymer samples under mechanical deformation and controlled temperature; develop the associated acquisition, control, and image-analysis software; execute imaging experiments on self-healing polymers and multilayers in coordination with the Principal Investigator. (30%)
2. Collect, analyze, and interpret speckle statistics, strain fields, and structural imaging data; correlate optical measurements with mechanical and thermal characterization (tensile testing, DMA, DSC, rheology); maintain accurate research records, protocols, and data documentation in compliance with university, sponsor, and regulatory requirements. (25%)
3. Prepare research results for publication and presentation: draft manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, and contribute figures, data, and text to annual sponsor progress reports. (10%)
4. Contribute to the preparation of grant proposals, including literature reviews, methods sections, and preliminary imaging data. (5%)
5. Train and mentor graduate and undergraduate students in optical instrumentation, imaging, laser safety, and data analysis; provide day-to-day technical guidance on experiments. (10%)
6. Synthesize or formulate polymer samples (dynamic covalent networks, supramolecular polymers, multilayer laminates) and prepare specimens for imaging and mechanical testing; ensure compliance with university sponsor, and safety requirements, including laser and chemical safety protocols and equipment maintenance. (15%)

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Perform other duties as assigned in support of the research mission. (5%)

In compliance with the City of Cleveland's Pay Transparency Ordiance (effective October 27, 2025), the annual starting base salary for this position is from $52,000 - $80,000. CWRU considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant, as well as the scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills and internal peer equity. University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and paid time off.

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education - PhD or other terminal degree in polymer science, materials science, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or a closely related field and

Experience - 0–3 years of post-degree research experience, including demonstrated research in polymer characterization and microscopy or optical imaging, evidenced by first-author publications

REQUIRED SKILLS

1. Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research within a defined project scope.
2. Knowledge of research methods, data analysis techniques, and scientific writing appropriate to the field of specialization.
3. Ability to maintain accurate research records and comply with university, sponsor, and regulatory requirements.
4. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations.
5. Ability to work collaboratively in a team research environment with faculty, staff, and students.
6. Willingness to learn and work with artificial intelligence (AI) tools and technologies.
7. Ability to demonstrate successful support, education, and advocacy for all students, aligned with the values, mission, and messaging of the university, while adhering to the staff policy on conflict of commitment and interest.
8. Ability to meet consistent attendance requirements.
9. Ability to interact with colleagues, supervisors, and collaborators face to face.

PREFERRED SKILLS

Hands-on experience with optical microscopy or imaging of soft materials; familiarity with laser-based techniques (speckle, interferometry, optical coherence tomography, or comparable).

Experience characterizing polymer mechanical and thermal behavior (tensile testing, DMA, DSC, rheology).

Ability to design and build custom experimental apparatus, including optical alignment and integration of cameras, stages, and control electronics.

Proficiency in scientific programming for instrument control and image or data analysis (Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW).

Experience with dynamic or self-healing polymer systems, polyurethanes, or multilayer composites.

Record of scientific publication and conference presentation.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

May provide training or mentorship to students and research staff

WORKING CONDITIONS

General laboratory and research environment. Exposure to hazards includes Class 3B/4 lasers, polymer synthesis chemicals and solvents, and mechanical testing equipment under load; appropriate training and personal protective equipment are provided and required. May require travel for conferences, sponsor meetings, or collaboration with partner institutions. May require occasional evening or weekend work to meet project or sponsor deadlines.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, protected veteran status, disability, age and genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement:

Case Western Reserve University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity by phone at 216.368.3066 or by email at equity@case.edu. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.