postdoc position at Penn State
Frecker, Mary I
The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Penn State University is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar in the Engineering Design Optimization Group lab under the direction of Dr. Mary Frecker.
The position starts 08/01/2025. Please apply at: https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Academic/job/Penn-State-University-Park/Postdoctoral-Scholar---Mechanical-Engineering_REQ_0000065504-1.
Job Duties:
- Conduct research in optimal design of adaptive structures, including magneto active and shape memory materials and structures, compliant mechanism synthesis, design for additive manufacturing, and/or topology optimization.
- Disseminate research results in peer reviewed publications and conference presentations.
- Assist in supervising and mentoring the graduate and undergraduate students working with Dr. Frecker.
- Assist in developing and writing external grant proposals.
- Assist in reviewing and providing constructive feedback on lab members' papers, oral presentations, and related work.
- Participate in research meetings and events, and fill in for Dr. Frecker, as needed.
- Assist in overall organization and management of the lab.
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Ph.D. as of the hire date in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
- Demonstrated success in carrying out independent research and dissemination of results.
- Excellent organizational skills needed for involvement in multiple projects.
- Excellent written/oral communication skills needed for active student mentoring and interaction with collaborators at Penn State and other universities.
- Experience in effective student mentoring.
- Dedication to ensuring a respectful, equitable and inclusive work environment.
- Experience with finite element analysis and design optimization preferred.
- Leadership experience preferred.
- Experience in writing grant proposals preferred.
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position and career goals, a CV including publication list, and names and contact information of up to three references. Review will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
Mary I. Frecker, Ph.D.
Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering
Professor of Mechanical & Biomedical Engineering
Riess Chair in Engineering
Penn State University
University Park, PA 16802