Research Scientist

at  University of Texas at El Paso

Under minimal supervision and with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment, performs highly advanced research work by overseeing the development, implementation, and monitoring of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) research projects. Manages the upkeep, training, and supervision of specialized research equipment within area of assigned responsibility. Plans, assigns, and/or supervises the work of others especially in the area of data science and statistics.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: PhD

Utilize advanced statistical techniques to analyze large datasets generated from test artifacts, extracting meaningful insights to drive decision-making and product improvement.
Develop and implement machine learning algorithms and predictive models to identify patterns and trends in test data, contributing to the enhancement of product performance and reliability.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design experiments, collect data, and interpret results, providing scientific expertise and guidance throughout the research process.
Apply data visualization techniques to communicate findings effectively, creating informative reports and presentations for stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Stay current with emerging technologies and methodologies in data science and statistics, continuously enhancing skills and knowledge to maintain a competitive edge in the field.
Contribute to the development of best practices and standards for data analysis and interpretation, promoting a culture of data-driven decision-making within the organization.
Oversees, plans, develops, conducts, monitors, and analyzes research projects to include interpreting results, developing nonstandard tests, recommending technology-based solutions, or determining computational strategies; formulates and monitors long-range research objectives, programs, and priorities; reviews, analyzes, and evaluates the impact of legislation, regulations, and policies affecting current research.
Evaluates and reviews the scope and methodologies of research projects and areas to be evaluated; provides consultation and technical advice on research methods and techniques; works with researchers on the design and development of experiments and interpretation of results for research and teaching.
Develops and reviews policies and procedures used in conducting and administering research activities; develops quality assurance procedures and conducts quality assurance reviews on research projects; develops, improves, or customizes products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods; develops data models and databases; may develop new software applications or customize existing applications to meet specific scientific project needs.
Writes technical papers/reports and prepares standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests; directs, coordinates, or advises personnel in test procedures.
Oversees the collection, compilation, and analyzing of research data for the preparation of reports and research findings; prepares reports and recommendations based upon research outcomes; prepares and provides presentations for professional organizations, governmental entities, and the public; communicates research results through conference presentations, scientific publications, or project reports.
Ensures adherence to laboratory standards and practices to maximize safety and operational effectiveness; prepares and schedules equipment use during laboratory/research sessions; may diagnose equipment malfunctions, dismantle, and repair equipment; maintains laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoots malfunctions when needed; compiles and analyzes test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions.
Trains users on the operation and data management of research equipment.
Participates in proposal writing and coordination for external funds for equipment acquisitions; may be a Principle Investigator or Co-Principle Investigator.
Knowledge of all Microsoft Office software and able to learn and use institutional software systems.
Complies with all State and University policies.
Other duties may be assigned.
Keck Center-Specific Duties:
Leads laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) research projects within the Keck Center, including the Global Test Artifact Data Exchange Program (GTADExP) and the associated GTADExP Consortium, especially as it relates to data management and statistical analysis by applying data science expertise.
Becomes integrated into all research projects and promotes the use of statistics from cradle to grave of all experiments carried out by Keck Center researchers (both graduate students and staff).
Reports progress to the Keck Center Director and interfaces regularly with other directors to provide updates as needed.
Ensures that all practices within the Keck Center adhere to safety practices as outlined by EH&S, SDS sheets, and equipment vendors.
Leads a team of Keck Center student researchers by training them in equipment operation, data analysis, communications, and providing career mentoring as needed.
Leads the development of standard operation procedures and work instructions for LPBF and the associated characterization processes (metallography, XCT, SEM, optical microscopy, mechanical testing, etc.).
Operates laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) equipment, including but not limited to, powder handling, machine set up, part removal, post processing, and documentation of the work.
Identifies when something is not right in the LPBF process and works towards resolving the issue using data-driven approaches.
Implements his/her knowledge of standard components in an LPBF system and awareness of different powder deposition types, scanner types, and gas flow importance.
Operates materials testing and/or characterization equipment, analyzes data obtained, and interprets such data for publications, presentations, or other relevant communications.
Participates in LPBF equipment and software maintenance, ensuring it is up to date so that equipment is operational at all times.
Contributes to the oversight of Keck Center expenses to ensure findings and relays such information to the funding agency or to colleagues in a way that can be understood.
Leads LPBF research proposals, from initial concept development and submission to implementation.
Participates in networking activities to expand the Keck Center’s reach and research funding opportunities. This includes traveling to conferences and/or equipment vendor sites.
Assists with additional LPBF communications (publications, media, agency, program collaborators, equipment/instrument vendors, industry, etc.)