Postdoctoral Researcher in Material Science

The Nanomaterials and Energy Systems Laboratory (NESL) at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, SMU, is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with strong interests in energy storage systems and materials science. A solid hands‑on experimental foundation, coupled with strong written and verbal communication skills, is essential for active participation in the laboratory’s research activities.

• Design and develop novel high‑entropy materials (HEMs) targeting superior mechanical performance under extreme environments.
• Evaluate the mechanical performance and chemical stability of HEMs under extreme conditions, including high‑temperature, high‑pressure, or corrosive exposure.
• Optimize the composition of materials for use in additive manufacturing.
• Develop scalable processing strategies for promising HEM systems and assess manufacturability.

• Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in synthesis and processing of advanced structural materials, with emphasis on high‑entropy alloys, high‑entropy ceramics, and other compositionally complex materials.
• Hands‑on expertise in material fabrication techniques such as induction melting, mechanical alloying, or sintering.
• Strong experience in microstructural and phase characterization using techniques such as XRD, SEM, TEM, Raman, and related analytical tools.
• Experience in studying material behavior under extreme conditions (high temperature, high pressure, corrosive environments, or dynamic loading).
• Evidence of scholarly productivity, including peer‑reviewed publications in reputable journals.
• Strong data analysis skills and familiarity with relevant software (Origin Pro or similar tools).
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.