The Department of Mechanical Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a talented, ambitious, and hard-working non-tenure line Assistant or Associate Research Professor in the field of atomistic-scale simulations. The successful candidate will be under the direction of Dr. Adri van Duin.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
Develop ReaxFF parameter sets.
Perform and analyze ReaxFF molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations.
Assist with supervising graduate and undergraduate research projects.
Write manuscripts and participate in research proposals.
The Assistant Research Professor should possess a terminal degree or its equivalent in an academic field related to their research. Alternatively, the Assistant Research Professor without a terminal degree should possess at least a master's degree or its equivalent in an academic field related to their teaching specialization; must have demonstrated ability as a researcher; and must have shown evidence of professional growth and scholarship in their discipline. An Associate Research Professor should possess a terminal degree or its equivalent in an academic field related to their research; must have demonstrated ability as a researcher; and must have shown evidence of professional growth and scholarship in their discipline. Alternatively, the Associate Research Professor should possess at least a master's degree or its equivalent in an academic field related to their research; must have demonstrated exceptional ability as a researcher; and must have shown evidence of professional growth and scholarship in their discipline at a level of distinction beyond that of the Assistant Research Professor. Degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields are preferred.
The successful candidate will have strong experience in atomistic-scale simulation methods; in particular, ReaxFF reactive force fields, non-reactive force fields, and Density Functional Theory methods are required. Good communication skills, the ability to work both independently and in a team environment, and proficiency with Fortran, C, C++, JAVA, Python, or other relevant coding methods are required. Experience with force field development is a major asset. Postdoctoral experience, a strong publication record, and prior experience supervising or mentoring graduate students are preferred.
This is a term appointment, funded for one year from the date of hire, with a possibility of renewal. Interested candidates should submit their CV and cover letter. The position is available by October 1, 2023.
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