Job Description Postdoctoral Research Position � Dynamic Compression of Solids
Institute for Shock Physics
Washington State University
The Institute for Shock Physics at Washington State University has immediate openings for postdoctoral research associates to conduct experimental research to examine the mechanical response of solids (solid-solid phase transformations, inelastic deformation), subjected to shock wave loading using laser-interferometry and X-ray diffraction measurements (ns time-resolution). The scientific objectives are to relate the macroscopic response to microscopic mechanisms. We are looking for creative, self-motivated individuals who have the ability and the drive to pursue challenging, interdisciplinary problems in a fast-paced research environment.
Only applicants who are currently in the U.S. and meet the following minimum qualifications will be considered for the position:
• A very recent Ph.D. degree in Physics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field
• Graduate or post-graduate experience at a U.S. Academic Institution or National Laboratory
• Strong academic and research background to undertake phase transformation and inelastic deformation studies in solids
• Strong experimental skills and hands-on experience to conduct single-event experiments
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Good judgment, clear sense of purpose, and accountability
Prior experience in shock wave or dynamic compression research is not required. However, strong hands-on experimental skills relevant to understanding the mechanical response of materials in terms of its microstructure are essential.
A brief summary of the Institute’s activities follows. Experimental work typically involves fast, time-resolved measurements in single event, impact experiments. Research projects currently underway include: understanding of inelastic deformation and failure under dynamic loading; effect of material microstructure on dynamic deformation; chemical decomposition in energetic materials; pressure induced structural phase transitions; development of fast optical methods to probe shock induced changes; effect of deformation on semiconductor properties; time-resolved x-ray diffraction studies; high pressure equation of state studies; and chemical and physical changes under static high pressures. Further details may be seen at www.shock.wsu.edu.
The salary structure is both attractive and nationally competitive. Other benefits include health/dental insurance, vacation/sick leave, retirement plans, and access to all University facilities.
THE INSTITUTE FOR SHOCK PHYSICS
A multidisciplinary research organization within the College of Sciences, ISP undertakes a broad range of fundamental scientific activities related to understanding condensed matter response under dynamic and static high pressures. Washington State University has a long and distinguished history of conducting research in shock wave science. In 1997, the Institute was established by the Department of Energy (DOE) to ensure a strong, long-term academic base for the DOE’s national security mission.
Continuum-to-Atomic level understanding is the pervading theme of research activities that emphasize integration of innovative experiments with theoretical and computational advances. Multidisciplinary efforts that combine expertise in Physics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Chemistry are underway to address several exciting and challenging scientific problems. In addition to the research faculty within the Institute, students and faculty from several departments within the Colleges of Science and Engineering participate in the Institute’s research projects. Excellent research interactions are in place with the DOE / NNSA National Laboratories: Lawrence Livermore, Los Alamos, and Sandia.
The state-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities are housed in the Shock Physics Building. Inaugurated in 2003, the building was designed specifically for shock wave research and represents a unique facility among academic institutions. The major experimental research facilities available for studying physical and chemical phenomena over a large range of length and time scales include the Impact Laboratory, Laser Shock Laboratory, Static High Pressure Laboratory, and the Compact Pulsed Power Facility. Among the Institute’s research capabilities is a Computational Facility designed to complement the experimental effort.
WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY
Washington State University, one of the two research universities in the state, was founded in 1890 as the state’s land-grant institution and is located in Pullman with regional campuses in Spokane, Vancouver and the Tri-Cities. It is a Carnegie Doctoral/Research Extensive University with a strong emphasis on excellence in research and education. Current enrollment is approximately 21,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional student FTEs, with approximately 5,600 faculty and staff. The University offers approximately 4300 courses in 150 undergraduate, and more than 70 graduate, degree programs. Academically the University is organized into 10 colleges (Agriculture, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Architecture; Honors; Liberal Arts; Nursing; Pharmacy; Sciences; Veterinary Medicine) and a Graduate School.
APPLICATIONS
Applicants should submit a letter of application explicitly addressing the qualifications for this position and date of availability; detailed curriculum vitae; and the names, email, and addresses for three professional references to:
Professor Y.M. Gupta
Institute for Shock Physics
Washington State University
PO Box 642816
Pullman, WA 99164-2816
or via email at ispjobs@wsu.edu.
To ensure consideration, please specify the position (Postdoc: Dynamic Compression of Solids) for which you are applying. We will begin reviewing submissions immediately and will continue to do so until the position is filled.
WSU is an EO/AA Educator and Employer.
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