Material Scientist

AeroVironment (AV) has an opportunity for a Material Scientist to join our Ceramics and Composites team supporting research at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). This position will support basic and applied research involving the processing, preparation, and characterization of ceramic and ceramic composite materials. 

The Material Scientist will perform laboratory activities under the direction of senior researchers and will contribute to ongoing research projects involving ceramic powder processing, sample preparation, sintering, composite layup, and materials characterization. The role requires collaboration with government and contractor researchers within the team and across related research groups. 

The ideal candidate is a motivated and adaptable scientist who demonstrates strong attention to detail, a willingness to learn new techniques, and the ability to work effectively in a laboratory research environment. 

Responsibilities 

• Support basic and applied research activities involving ceramic and ceramic composite materials. 

• Perform routine laboratory activities related to ceramic powder processing, sample preparation, sintering, and composite fabrication. 

• Assist with materials characterization using techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). 

• Follow established laboratory procedures and safety requirements while maintaining accurate experimental records and documentation. 

• Assist with the development and implementation of laboratory methods and experimental approaches under the guidance of senior researchers. 

• Analyze and document experimental results and communicate findings to research team members. 

• Work collaboratively with government and contractor researchers to support program objectives. 

• Adapt to changing research priorities and program requirements. 

• Maintain laboratory equipment, materials, and work areas in accordance with established procedures. 

• Demonstrate careful attention to detail and a commitment to producing reliable and reproducible experimental results. 

Minimum Educational Qualifications: 

• Master’s degree/Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, Chemistry, Ceramic Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline, with 0–2 years of relevant laboratory or research experience; or 

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Chemistry, or a related technical discipline, with 2–4 years of relevant laboratory or research experience. 

Basic Qualifications 

• Academic, research, or laboratory experience with materials processing and characterization. 

• Familiarity with one or more materials characterization techniques, such as SEM, TEM, or XRD. 

• Ability to learn and apply new laboratory techniques and approaches. 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team. 

• Self-motivated with strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 

• Ability to adapt to changing research objectives and priorities. 

• U.S. Citizenship is required due to work within a government facility. 

Desired Qualifications 

• Experience with ceramic powder processing, sintering, or ceramic/composite sample preparation. 

• Familiarity with inert-atmosphere experimentation, including glovebox operation or air-free synthesis. 

• Experience with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), rheometry, and/or dilatometry. 

• Laboratory research experience involving the preparation, processing, or characterization of advanced materials.