Postdoctoral Associate

Overview

Postdoctoral Associate in Sustainable In-Space Manufacturing

Area of Research
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The postdoctoral associate/research scientist will work on a newly funded $3 million National Science Foundation Future Manufacturing project in developing a sustainability framework for manufacturing on the lunar surface. The candidate will apply methods, such as life cycle assessment, participatory modeling, multi-criteria optimization, and scenario analysis in understanding the sustainability of various in-space manufacturing techniques and development trajectories. The candidate will be co-advised by Drs.

Weiwei Mo and Brad Kinsey, and work closely with research collaborators from University of New Hampshire, Purdue University, Baylor University, NASA, Astroport, and other relevant entities in developing the framework and conducting assessments. Recent advancements in the space industry have brought humanity closer than ever to exploring potential ways to utilize space resources and protect the Earth’s environment. With the emerging interests and technological advancements in in-space manufacturing (ISM), it is of utmost importance to conceptualize the fundamental principles of ISM sustainability and to guide its technological development through these principles to ensure that the pursuit of progress aligns with the goals of environmental stewardship and long-term viability.

The long-term Earth and humanity benefits from ISM are beyond imagination, especially in face of the multitude of global pressing challenges related to climate change, resource depletion, environmental pollution, and population growth. As such, the overarching goal of this project is to enable a sustainable space industry that minimizes or reduces its impact on the Earth and space environments.

Successful candidates will place their major focus on achieving original first-authored publications in interdisciplinary academic journals. They will work effectively in a team environment and will value interdisciplinary collaborations. Post-doctoral fellows will have the opportunity to mentor graduate and/or undergraduate students.

Applicants must have received, or be close to receiving, their PhD degree in an area of environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, aerospace engineering, or other related fields. In addition, the applicant should have a working knowledge in life cycle assessment, participatory modeling, and optimization.

$52,000 and above based on experience

As soon as possible

Term – 12 months with the potential for renewal

Please include in your application package a cover letter; your full academic CV; information on 2 referees that are prepared to be consulted; your two most relevant publications. Please submit your application through (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). . Evaluation of candidates will begin immediately and continue until filled.

• Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering