Research Scientist - Materials Research Laboratory

Research Scientist

Materials Research Laboratory

The Grainger College of Engineering

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The Materials Research Laboratory (MRL) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to lead and expand research in characterization and testing of structural materials for extreme environments. The Research Scientist will develop an externally funded research program addressing mechanical behavior, irradiation effects, phase transformations, and materials design and synthesis, focusing on challenges in energy, transportation, manufacturing, or other demanding service environments.

The successful candidate will become a member of the dedicated staff of approximately 20 scientists and engineers, who maintain major research instruments in the MRL's core facilities for electron microscopy, battery fabrication and characterization facilities, soft materials characterization, scanning probe microscopy, laser and optical spectroscopy, surface analysis, x-ray diffraction, and nanofabrication facilities including two cleanrooms. Approximately 1,000 researchers from across our campus as well as other academic institutions, industry, and national laboratories use the facilities, logging more than 100,000 user hours annually. The lab is recognized as one of the premier mid-sized user facilities in the nation. For details, please visit us online at https://mrl.illinois.edu/facilities/.

• Perform high-level research and development in structural alloy resilience under extreme degradation modes; publish high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship and disseminate results through conference presentations and professional engagement.
• Lead sponsored research projects in structural materials in extreme environments; prepare technical reports and other deliverables for sponsors.
• Develop, lead, and submit competitive research proposals to various funding agencies; contribute to proposal conceptualization and ideation, gap identification and background knowledge, developing research and evaluation plans, team building, and coordinating contributions from collaborators.
• Maintain and advance relevant laboratory facilities, equipment, safety practices, and experimental capabilities.
• Collaborate effectively within a large research group and across interdisciplinary teams; establish external research partnerships and contribute to the development of new research directions and collaborations.
• Contribute to mentorship and training of undergraduate and/or graduate students, including instrument-specific training, results interpretation, and professional skills development.
• Perform other related research duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field.
• 5 or more years of postdoctoral or other post-Ph.D. research experience.
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications in advanced characterization, mechanical behavior, irradiation effects, or related areas.
• Demonstrated success in developing and securing externally sponsored research proposals.
• Demonstrate the ability to lead independent research, manage multiple priorities, communicate effectively with sponsors and collaborators, and work productively in a collaborative research environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience mentoring undergraduate and/or graduate students.
• Experience managing laboratory equipment, experimental programs, or research personnel.
• Expertise in advanced electron microscopy techniques, irradiation effects and nuclear materials, fracture or deformation mechanisms analysis, and/or alloy synthesis and manufacturing.
• Familiarity with practices and organizational structures of large public universities.

This is an Academic Professional position appointed on a 12-month service basis. The expected start date is approximately January 16, 2027. The budgeted salary range for this position is $70,000 - $80,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. This position is eligible for work authorization sponsorship. The individual hired in this position is expected to work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus on a full-time basis.

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on October 13, 2026. A hiring decision will not be made until after the closing date. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Please upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contact information for three references. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Summer Redman at sredman@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, a retirement plan, paid time off, and tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures for applicants.