About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is for a postdoctoral researcher focused on developing optical fiber sensors for various industries. You'll be hands-on with research, sensor design, and collaboration with industry experts, while also managing project meetings and writing reports. It's primarily an individual contributor role with some mentorship.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have a PhD in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field, along with strong practical skills and a publication record in optical sensors. Those who thrive in collaborative, research-driven environments will do well here.

Worth noting

The position is funded for one year but has a high chance of extension. It's also backed by U.S. Army funding, which could provide unique networking opportunities in both academic and industrial settings.

JOB TITLE

Post-Doctoral Fellow

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Mechanical & Materials Engineering - JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

One opening is available now for a postdoctoral researcher on optical fiber sensor development. The proposed optical fiber sensors will enable differentiation of complex mixtures of gasses and aromas, with potential applications ranging from the food industry, pharmaceutical industry, advanced manufacturing, and defense purposes.

The project is sponsored by U.S. Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC), and the technology has been attracting interests from various industrial members in the food and pharma industries, with one company in the process of licensing this technology from WPI. The postdoc researcher will be mentored closely while being granted their own freedom of pursuing new ideas, providing that the progress on the sponsored project is satisfactory. The training of the postdoc will benefit from sophisticated experiences on multidisciplinary research topics and extensive facilities available in the research group. The postdoc will have opportunities to collaborate closely and interact periodically with experts from these industrial sectors and from the Army. In addition, the postdoc will be able to take advantages of the industrial and academic connections through the WPI/UIUC Center for Advanced Research in Drying (https://www.dryingresearch.org/).

JOB DESCRIPTION

The specific job responsibilities include research activities, coordinating monthly meetings with sponsors, and writing reports and publications. The postdoc is expected to lead research activities including fiber sensor design and fabrication, fiber tip customization, numerical simulation on optical modes in waveguides (mainly in COMSOL Multiphysics), in-lab sensor characterization, and in-the-field sensor demonstration.

Requirements

The requirements for the candidates include 1) US citizenship or permanent residency, 2) strong hands-on skills and a trackable publication record on optical fibers or optical sensor development, 3) a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related majors. The existing funding is for one year with a high likelihood to continue after the first year.

To apply please include:

Cover Letter
CV
Contact information of 3 referees

Position is open until filled, and the review of applications has already started.

Compensation: $65,000 annual. This position is supported through external funding.

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.

Aplyr's read

Worcester Polytechnic Institute excels in STEM education through its innovative project-based learning, attracting dedicated educators and researchers focused on practical, impactful solutions.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•WPI's project-based learning approach enhances practical skills and real-world problem-solving abilities.
•Strong emphasis on STEM disciplines aligns with industry demands and future job markets.
•Collaborative environment fosters innovation and interdisciplinary research opportunities.

What to watch

•High reliance on adjunct faculty may affect job security and continuity.
•Limited public information about career advancement opportunities for non-faculty roles.
•Potentially high workload for adjunct positions with less institutional support.

Why Worcester Polytechnic Institute

•WPI's Global Projects Program offers students international project experience.
•The Institute's focus on robotics engineering is a key differentiator in STEM education.
•WPI's commitment to integrating humanities with technical education broadens student perspectives.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?

About Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

wpi.edu

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Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a private research university known for its project-based learning approach and emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.