Research Scientist: Department of Defense Research Center - UTK

Overview

Research Scientist:
Department of Defense Research Center - UTK — The Research Scientist (Metallurgy) conducts applied and fundamental research involving alloy development, heat treatments, and advanced manufacturing of metallic components for defense applications. This role operates within UT’s Defense Research Center, collaborating with government, industry, and academic partners to advance DoD-funded materials initiatives.

• Design and execute metallurgical experiments on aluminum, steel, and refractory metal systems.
• Develop and apply heat-treatment schedules to tailor microstructures.
• Characterize materials using techniques such as optical microscopy, SEM/EDS, EBSD, XRD, microhardness testing, and mechanical evaluations.
• Develop and validate analytical and computational models.
• Support qualification of Additive Friction Stir Deposition (AFSD), WAAM, and Cold Spray processes.
• Mentor students and partners; manage laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and research operations.

• Required Qualifications
  :
  Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering disciplines; 3 years of experience in metallurgy including heat treatments, microstructural characterization, and mechanical testing; knowledge of heat treatment processes and materials characterization techniques; strong technical writing and collaboration skills.

• Doctoral Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering disciplines; 1+ year experience in CNC machining; 1+ year experience with structured light scanners, coordinate measuring machines, optical profilometers; 1+ year experience with additive manufacturing processes for metals; knowledge of CNC and wire EDM for part production; ability to perform experiments for model development.

• Location:
  
  Knoxville, TN
• Onsite

• UT market range: MR 13
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted attachments. To be assured of full consideration, include all requested materials in the application:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of 3 Professional References

The Tickle College of Engineering is in a period of growth, with new facilities and ambitious cluster hiring campaigns. The college has strong research expenditures and a diverse faculty and student body across multiple departments and institutes. UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs and maintains a commitment to its land-grant mission and to an inclusive employee experience.

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!

Seniority level:
Mid-Senior level

Employment type:

Full-time

Job function:
Other | Industries:
Higher Education

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