This position is budgeted for $6,435.00 per month and is non-negotiable.

The Experimental Mechanics Laboratory at San Diego State University is seeking an outstanding and highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Experimental Solid Mechanics Laboratory. This position offers a unique opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research at the intersection of materials science, mechanical engineering, and applied physics. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of novel experimental techniques for characterizing the multiphysical behavior of polymers and composites under a broad range of loading, operating, and environmental conditions. Our lab is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including multimodal laser-induced shock waves, terahertz spectroscopy and imaging, high-resolution and high-speed digital image correlation, specialized load frames for multi-axial testing, digital image correlation (DIC) systems, a fully-instrumented drop tower, and a small-scale shock tube. This role is ideal for an individual with a strong foundation in experimental mechanics, a passion for hands-on research, and a desire to publish high-impact work in leading scientific journals. We foster a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment that encourages independent thought and the development of new research directions.

Design and Execution of Experiments 25%

• Independently design, set up, and execute sophisticated experimental campaigns to investigate the mechanical behavior of various materials under diverse loading conditions (e.g., tension, compression, shear, fatigue, impact, high temperature).
• Develop novel in-situ testing methodologies to observe deformation mechanisms at micro/nano scales.

Data Acquisition and Analysis 25%

• Operate and maintain advanced experimental equipment, including but not limited to universal testing machines, optical microscopes, high-speed cameras, DIC systems, and force/displacement transducers.
• Develop and implement robust data acquisition protocols and advanced image/data processing techniques.

Instrumentation and Customization 15%

• Troubleshoot, calibrate, and, where necessary, design and fabricate custom experimental setups and fixtures to meet specific research needs.
• Tasks may involve CAD design, machining, and integration of sensors and control systems.

Collaboration and Mentorship 5%

• Work collaboratively with faculty, graduate students, and other postdoctoral researchers within the lab and across departments.
• Potentially mentor junior researchers on experimental techniques and data analysis.

Dissemination of Research 15%

• Prepare and publish research findings in top-tier peer-reviewed journals (e.g., Journal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids, Experimental Mechanics, Acta Materialia, Nature Materials).
• Present research at national and international conferences.

Grant Writing (Optional but Encouraged) 5%

• Contribute to the preparation of research proposals and grant applications.

Laboratory Maintenance 5%

• Contribute to the overall maintenance, organization, and adherence to safety protocols within the laboratory.

Other Duties as Assigned 5%

Knowledge & Abilities

• Deep knowledge in a specific research area.
• Proficiency in qualitative, quantitative, experimental, or computational techniques.
• Experience in applying for research funding.
• Skilled in analyzing and interpreting data (e.g., using MATLAB, R, Python).
• Ability to write papers and reports for peer-reviewed journals.
• Understanding of ethical guidelines in research.
• Capable of planning and executing complex projects.
• Effective in team-based, interdisciplinary work.
• Strong oral and written presentation skills.
• Experience mentoring students or junior researchers.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Creative and analytical thinking for research challenges.
• Flexibility in adjusting research direction as needed.

Minimum Education & Experience

• Doctoral degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  
• 0-5 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications & Special Skills

• PhD. in Mechanical Engineering or related, with strong experimental mechanics research.
• Expertise in polymer/composite additive manufacturing.
• Proven high-impact publications.
• Excellent technical, experimental, and communication skills.
• Independent, collaborative, proactive, and innovative problem-solver.

Additional Applicant Information

• Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law.  
• Employment decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support. 
• SDSU Research Foundation complies with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), and other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws including grant or contract terms and conditions related to funded program activities. Further the SDSU Research Foundation maintains a Nondiscrimination Policy that prohibits discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all programs, policies, and practices.  
• SDSU Research Foundation makes all employment decisions including, but not limited to, applicant screening, hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, benefits, disciplinary actions, and terminations on the basis of merit.