Hypersonic Ground Test Researcher

The Opportunity

The laboratories of Profs. Raghavan, Engblom and Ricklick at the Department of Aerospace Engineering, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona welcomes applications for a postdoctoral scholar to commence work in Spring 2025. The scholar will work on game-changing low-cost and high-throughput ground testing for rapid and accurate materials testing in a close-to-hypersonic realm. The postdoctoral scholar will offer multidisciplinary research skills, adapting to the convolution of aerodynamic, aerothermal and materials fields. The researcher will co-ordinate the integration of the test rig at Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) with full-time dedication and multiple extended visits to ANL to realize the outcomes.

The selected candidate will work under the supervision of Prof Raghavan. Dr Raghavan values scientific and professional mentorship as well as outreach for the development of future scientists.

Due to federal regulations, this position is limited to U.S. citizens. Proof of citizenship will be required upon hire.

Project Leadership and Collaboration:

• Serve as supporting materials scientific researcher on the project, guiding its technical direction and ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues from Argonne National Laboratory and industry partners to integrate diverse expertise and resources.
• Foster a collaborative environment among the project team, facilitating effective communication and knowledge exchange.

Design and Development of Testing Facility:

• Lead the materials aspects of the design and development of a state-of-the-art ground materials test facility tailored for hypersonic applications.
• Oversee the technical operation, training and usage of manufacturing equipment at ERAU for this project including the Spark Plasma Sintering system and high temperature heater equipment.
• Coordinate the integration of the test facility with existing synchrotron facilities to leverage advanced imaging and analysis techniques.
• Oversee the procurement, installation, and commissioning of new equipment and technologies necessary for the facility’s operation.
• Conduct validation and verification testing for the facility’s commissioning.

Research and Experimentation:

• Design a step-by-step approach to conducting high-level research on hypersonic materials under various conditions
• Develop and implement experimental protocols and procedures to effectively utilize the facility for material testing.
• Analyze and interpret data collected from experiments, utilizing advanced computational methods and software.

Mentorship and Training:

• Mentor and supervise a team of graduate and undergraduate students involved in the project, providing guidance on research methodologies and professional development.
• Develop training materials and procedures for the safe and effective operation of the test facility.
• Organize workshops and seminars to disseminate knowledge and skills pertinent to hypersonic materials testing.

Outreach and Dissemination:

• Present findings at national conferences, workshops, and symposia.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to scientific community knowledge.
• Engage with industry partners to translate research findings into practical applications and innovations in the field of hypersonics.

​Project Management and Reporting:

• Support the management of project timelines, budgets, and deliverables in coordination with the principal investigators and funding agencies.
• Prepare regular progress reports and updates for stakeholders and funding bodies.
• Ensure compliance with all institutional, federal, and safety regulations in all project activities.

Embry-Riddle: A Global Leader in Aviation and Aerospace

With vibrant campuses in Daytona Beach, FL and Prescott, AZ, plus a Worldwide network across approximately 120 locations, Embry-Riddle stands as the world’s largest aviation and aerospace university. For 100 years, we've been pioneering education in STEM fields, serving over 11,600 residential students and 19,200 globally in the 2023-24 academic year with cutting-edge programs in Applied Science, Aviation, Business, Technology, Engineering, Safety, Security, and Space. Click here to take a virtual tour of the Daytona Beach Campus!

Perks Await You at Embry-Riddle!   

• Health Benefits: Experience comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with wellness programs that include preventive care and fitness memberships. Our flexible spending and health savings accounts simplify managing healthcare costs. Join a workplace that prioritizes your health—because your journey to wellness should be rewarding! Buckle up for a healthier, happier you! 
• Tuition Coverage: Get 100% tuition coverage for yourself for one undergraduate and one graduate degree, and discounted rates for your spouse and dependent children up to age 26.  
• Retirement Contributions: ERAU contributes an annual 6% gift of your base salary to your retirement plan and offers a 4% matching contribution, with no vesting period. 
• Generous Time Off: Relax with 18 days of personal leave in your first year. Enjoy 9+ paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. 

Required education and qualifications

Candidates should have a doctorate in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, or a related field. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of the mechanics of materials, advanced diagnostics in this area, as well as interest or experience in developing instrumentation and working with experimental techniques.

It is desired that candidates have strong presentation skills, capability to support research guidance of a team of students and excellent communication with external collaborators including industry partners and scientists.

Application process/requirements

Review of applications will begin immediately and and will continue until the position is filled.

To submit your application for this opportunity, please visit the Embry-Riddle Career Site and search for requisition number R308854. Please attach all relevant materials to your application when you apply online. Complete submissions include a detailed CV, a one page research statement, a representative journal publication, and at least two references to Dr. Seetha Raghavan ([email protected]).

Current Embry-Riddle employees: Please apply directly through the ERAU Employee Hub Central application within Workday.

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