JOB TITLE Post-Doctoral Fellow LOCATION Worcester DEPARTMENT NAME Mechanical & Materials Engineering - JM DIVISION NAME Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY One opening is available now for a postdoctoral researcher on optical fiber sensor development. The proposed optical fiber sensors will enable differentiation of complex mixtures of gasses and aromas, with potential applications ranging from the food industry, pharmaceutical industry, advanced manufacturing, and defense purposes. The project is sponsored by U.S. Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC), and the technology has been attracting interests from various industrial members in the food and pharma industries, with one company in the process of licensing this technology from WPI. The postdoc researcher will be mentored closely while being granted their own freedom of pursuing new ideas, providing that the progress on the sponsored project is satisfactory. The training of the postdoc will benefit from sophisticated experiences on multidisciplinary research topics and extensive facilities available in the research group. The postdoc will have opportunities to collaborate closely and interact periodically with experts from these industrial sectors and from the Army. In addition, the postdoc will be able to take advantages of the industrial and academic connections through the WPI/UIUC Center for Advanced Research in Drying (https://www.dryingresearch.org/). JOB DESCRIPTION The specific job responsibilities include research activities, coordinating monthly meetings with sponsors, and writing reports and publications. The postdoc is expected to lead research activities including fiber sensor design and fabrication, fiber tip customization, numerical simulation on optical modes in waveguides (mainly in COMSOL Multiphysics), in-lab sensor characterization, and in-the-field sensor demonstration. Requirements The requirements for the candidates include 1) US citizenship or permanent residency, 2) strong hands-on skills and a trackable publication record on optical fibers or optical sensor development, 3) a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related majors. The existing funding is for one year with a high likelihood to continue after the first year. To apply please include: Cover Letter CV Contact information of 3 referees Position is open until filled, and the review of applications has already started. Compensation: $65,000 annual. This position is supported through external funding. FLSA STATUS United States of America (Exempt) WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination. About WPI Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a vibrant and diverse community of extraordinary students, talented and dedicated staff, and world-renowned faculty. Along with its state-of-the-art research facilities, WPI offers competitive and comprehensive employee benefit programs, including paid time off, health insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, flexible spending accounts, and a working environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being. It is a community committed to civility and respect—making inclusion and belonging a reality for everyone on its campus.