Research Science Management

Details

Monday – Friday 8-5pm

Direct/Manage/Supervise engineers in the selection, qualification, testing, and failure analysis of materials and processes. Oversee research and strategy development regarding material technologies for various applications and production processes. Lead training and development for engineering staff on material-related trends and topics. Collaborate cross-functionally with design engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement teams to provide materials guidance and expertise. May specialize in polymer, metallurgical, ceramics, or other types of materials. Second-level manager. Manage the activities of first-level managers and/or supervisors. Responsible for hiring, firing, performance appraisals, and pay reviews. Broad knowledge of the field with proven leadership skills.

This position is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all aspects of department laboratory operations, ensuring high-quality technical support, training, and services for both internal and external users. The Materials Engineer Manager will act as a key liaison between the department, lab staff, faculty, and user community, supporting research, teaching, and service missions of the department as well as other duties as assigned.

The day-to-day responsibilities will include:

Technical Support & Equipment Oversight: Manage shared laboratory equipment in the MSE department, Materials Characterization Lab (MCL), SMART, and Crus Center facilities, including SEM, XRD, BET, MLA, UV/Vis, TGA/DSC, ICP-MS, electrokinetic analyzer, 3D printers, furnaces, crushing and grinding equipment, solution extraction and separation equipment, and autonomous laboratory equipment. Provide user training, develop and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), process samples for internal and external clients, and handle billing for equipment usage.

Advanced Characterization & Research Support: Conduct high-level sample characterization and coordinate multi-technique analytical projects. Write technical reports summarizing results and project outcomes for clients. Collect, compare, and synthesize vendor quotes for equipment purchases and service contracts. Interact professionally with internal and external users and work to meet associated research needs.

Instructional and Faculty Support: Support instructional labs by training TAs, students, and technicians operating in the center, preparing demonstrations, and maintaining teaching equipment. Collaborate with faculty on shared equipment use, potential donations, and long-term procurement planning.

Laboratory Operations & Maintenance: Order supplies (e.g., gloves, gases) and maintain an updated chemical inventory. Oversee general housekeeping and lab upkeep. Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and basic repairs on instruments, including alignment, calibration, and component replacement. Coordinate vendor service visits and oversee contract maintenance.

Safety & Compliance: Maintain a safe and compliant work environment in the MCL and Crus Center. Ensure all lab users complete required university EHS training and equipment-specific training. Develop, implement, and enforce safe laboratory procedures. Work with students and researchers to establish best practices and assist in drafting SOPs. Properly manage and dispose of hazardous waste.