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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Penn State Behrend, under the guidance of Assistant Professor Dr. Jiawei Gong, invites applications for a part-time Research Assistant (RA) position in the Mechanical Engineering department.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to one of two research projects: the synthesis of efficient metal-layered double hydroxides using ammonium-based compounds for energy storage applications in collaboration with Dr. Luyin Lin's group at NTUT, or the inverse design of perovskite solar cells using physics-informed machine learning techniques. Students from a variety of academic backgrounds, including but not limited to Device Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, Statistics, and Computer Science, are welcome to apply. The position is open to all degree levels, including exchange students from any institute and OPT/CPT students.

Hours and Compensation: The position will be 25 hours per week, for a total of 52 weeks, with an hourly rate of $17. The renewal of the position will be contingent upon future funding availability.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist in designing and conducting experiments pertinent to either energy storage synthesis or perovskite solar cell design based on the selected project. Depending on the chosen project:

• Participate in in-house material synthesis, characterization, and the assembly and measurement of energy storage devices.

• or, apply physics-informed machine learning techniques for the inverse design of perovskite solar cells.

Conduct in-depth physical analysis, including synchrotron radiation, for the energy storage project. Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental and computational data using statistical tools. Conduct comprehensive literature reviews pertinent to the research area. Prepare and maintain detailed records, logs, and summary reports of all experiments and results. Collaborate with the research team to prepare and publish research findings in scientific journals and conference proceedings. Coordinate with all members of the research team to ensure that project deadlines and quality standards are met.

Qualifications:

Enrollment or degree in Mechanical Engineering, Device Physics, Materials Science and Engineering, Statistics, Computer Science, or a closely related field. Pursuit of or completion of a Master's degree or PhD in a relevant field is highly desirable. Previous experience in engineering research, specifically in energy storage or solar cell technology, depending on the chosen project. Proficiency in engineering software and databases (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB), and/or machine learning tools for the solar cell project. Demonstrated ability to manage, analyze, and interpret complex data sets. Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, and computational skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a research team.

Application Process:

Interested applicants should submit a resume, a cover letter detailing their choice of project, relevant experience, and interest in the position. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Working Conditions:

This Research Assistant position may involve working in a general office environment, a mechanical engineering lab, or remotely, depending on the specific requirements of the research project. Some after-hours work may be required to meet project deadlines.

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Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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