Part Time Research Support
 The Pennsylvania State University | |
remote work
| |
 United States, Pennsylvania, University Park | |
| 201 Old Main (Show on map) | |
 May 07, 2025 | |
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, Energy Institute is seeking Part-Time Research Support. Graphite is a critical raw material for the green transition and demand is increasing in markets including electric vehicles and green energy storage. Based on current production, demand from these markets will result in a significant supply shortfall unless new sources are identified. Unfortunately, petroleum-derived graphite is a nonrenewable resource and requires intensive energy for conversion to graphite while the supply of mined graphite is limited and insufficient to meet the growing demand. In contrast, bio-based resources (e.g., the lignin byproduct from papermaking, cellulosic materials, etc.) are renewable and sustainable precursors for conversion into graphite but these bio-based precursors contain oxygen which fosters non-graphitizing structure. To enable the graphitization of bio-based precursors, we propose applying an innovative process of reactive templating in which graphene oxide additives and controlled heating will enable the formation of desired graphitic crystalline structure. The conversion of an organic material into a carbon occurs in stages, dependent upon temperature. Whether the bio-precursor can convert into a graphitic carbon is generally discernable the 1st stage, referred to as carbonization. Polarized light microscopy (PLM) can reveal the extent of isotropic versus anisotropic structure. The former is the precursor state for non-graphitizing char, while the latter is the precursor state for a graphitizing coke. The degree to which such structures as observed by PLM map to non-graphitic versus graphitic nanostructure it yet to be mapped, a new contribution by the proposed study. Algorithm development for quantification of PLM image data is required to enable quantitative assessment of PLM structure as a predictor for the materialgraphitizability.
Application review will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. To be considered for this position, applicants must include a cover letter and resume. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.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. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines | |