West Lafayette Research Associate Engineering IN 47906
- LocationNot stated
- Work typeOn-site
- Posted15 November 2026
- SourcePurdue University's careers page (SAP SuccessFactors)
Last checked12 min ago: still listed on Purdue University's careers page. First seen 4 h ago.
Moves fastWhen Purdue University takes a role down early, it is usually about 2 days after posting. Apply soon.
At a glance
- Experience1+ year
- EducationMaster's degree
- VisaNo sponsorship
Read from the ad by RoleFinder, with rules and an AI reading; the description is the source.
About the role
Job Summary
Assist with the leadership of research projects and advising of students performing experimental investigation of multiphase flow and combustion phenomena for applications to propulsion, energetics, and other systems at Zucrow Laboratories. The Guildenbecher research group is leading several sponsored programs that are (i) investigating reacting metal, carbon, and other particles in isolated and group combustion environments, (ii) developing optical diagnostics to quantify multiphase reaction species, temperatures, concentrations, and other quantities of interest, (iii) engineering high-speed flow facilities to study multiphase dynamics in propulsion systems, and (iv) collaborating with government labs, academia, and industry to apply experimental knowledge and perform model validation. Experiments make use of laser and imaging diagnostics, such as high-speed cameras, digital inline holography (DIH), particle imaging velocimetry (PIV), laser induced florescence (LIF), laser absorption spectroscopy (LAS), emission spectroscopy, etc. Experimental facilities include benchtop laser configurations, liquid spray devices, electrodynamic chambers (EDC) for particle levitation, explosive blast configurations, and large flow rigs at Zucrow Laboratories. The candidate should have related prior experience, and this position will provide abundant opportunities to learn and advance skillsets in these and other topics.
The candidate will contribute to development of laboratory facilities, advancement of optical diagnostics, measurement acquisition, data processing, and dissemination of results via journal and conference proceedings. Dr. Guildenbecher will assist and advise the candidate throughout these efforts. At the candidate’s discretion, they may also help formulate new research ideas and customers through grant writing in coordination with the faculty lead.
Due to federal requirements associated with this position, U.S. citizenship is required as a condition of employment.
What You'll Be Doing:
- Lead research operations and execution with responsibility for task definition, experimental configuration, safety coordination, data acquisition, data processing, and report generation
- Advise students in coordination with the faculty advisors(s)
- Coordinate research operations with Zucrow Laboratory and other university parties
- Present research results at major conferences, meetings, and customer facilities
About Us:
The College of Engineering at Purdue University is among the best and largest Engineering schools in the world. With nearly 16,000 engineering students and more than 500 tenure track faculty in the college, this position has ample opportunity to have an impact at one of the world’s most influential universities.
For more information about our department, please visit:
- College of Engineering, Purdue University https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr
- External Recognitions Program https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr/People/Awards
- College of Engineering's Social Media https://engineering.purdue.edu/Engr/AboutUs/social
What We're Looking For:
Education and Experience:
- Master’s degree in a relevant field
- One (1) year of experience
Skills needed:
- Research experience one or more of the following topics: multiphase combustion physics, linear optics, advanced imaging diagnostics, laser diagnostics, optical spectroscopy, high-flow and high-pressure facility operations, and model validation.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills with demonstrated ability to publish novel findings in peer-reviewed articles.
Nice to have:
- PhD in a relevant field of engineering or science
Who We Are:
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Additional Information:
- Purdue’s benefits summary https://www.purdue.edu/hr/Benefits/
- Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
- A background check will be required for employment in this position
- FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
- Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
Career Stream
Compensation Information:
Professional 2
Pay Band S120
Job Code#20003028
Link to Purdue University's Compensation Guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php
EOE
Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university
Get open roles ranked against your CV
Add your CV once. RoleFinder ranks the open roles where you want to work, plus remote ones, against it, shows your best 12 with a one-line reason each, and emails you new matches once a week. The file is read once by AI and not kept; employers never see it.
Sign in with Google or email to start. How we handle your CV