Postdoctoral Scholar in Mechanical Engineering

The Pennsylvania State University

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Penn State University Park Until 9/27/2026 0+ years exp H-1B sponsor history First posted July 29, 2026 Last posted July 29, 2026
Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

 

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

 

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a talented, ambitious, and hard-working Postdoctoral Scholar under the direction of Dr. Adri van Duin.

Job Duties:

  • Perform and analyze ReaxFF reactive molecular dynamics simulations on 2D-material growth

  • Connect the results from these simulations to data science methods and Computational Fluid Dynamics

  • Perform Quantum Chemical simulations on 2D-material growth related reaction mechanisms

  • Assist in integrating ReaxFF simulations into a AI-driven scheme for controlling autonomous growth

Requirements & Qualifications:

  • PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science or related discipline by the start date

  • Expertise with ReaxFF force field development

  • Expertise with AI methods 

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, especially with data scientists

 

 

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

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

 

 

 

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.

 

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

 

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

 

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

 

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

 

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About this role

Summary

Conduct simulations and data integration on 2D-material growth using computational methods.

Job title

Postdoctoral Scholar in Mechanical Engineering

Experience level

null

Minimum experience

0+ years exp

Industry

education

Location requirements

Penn State University Park, on-site mostly, remote work not guaranteed.

Salary

Not specified

Visa sponsorship

H-1B sponsor history

Management role

No

Skills & keywords

Required skills

reaxff force field developmentAI methodscommunication

Preferred skills

None specified

Specializations

molecular dynamicsdata sciencequantum chemistryAI
Locations

Structured locations inferred from the posting.

University Park, State College, PA, USA

On-site City