Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Computational Materials Science

Position Overview

The lab led by Professor Avik Mahata in the School of Engineering and Computational Sciences has an opening for a postdoctoral research fellow in computational materials design. This lab focuses on the application of artificial intelligence to the development of advanced materials for future technological applications. More information about Professor Mahata’s research can be found at: https://www.merrimack.edu/profiles/avik-mahata/.

Current openings in areas of Professor Mahata’s research:

Machine Learning in Atomistic Simulation

Computational Modelling of High Entropy Alloy

Atomistic Simulation of 2D Materials

Large Scale Atomistic Simulation of Solidification of Metallic Materials

Merrimack College is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek candidates with a demonstrated ability to work with students across a broad range of social and personal identities and perspectives. We particularly encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups.

Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry or related disciplines. Graduate students near completion of their PhD program are also welcome to apply.

• Successful candidates will have expertise in atomistic and mesoscale simulations

• An excellent grasp of software development fundamentals and test-driven development practices

• Advanced knowledge of Python programming

• Experience in CUDA/C++ and High Performance Computing

• Proven experience in VASP, Quantum Espresso, FHI-AIMS, or other ab-initio code

• Ability to write clear, maintainable, and highly organized object-oriented code

• Expertise in ANSYS or ABAQUS is also welcome

• Deep understanding of thermodynamics and kinetics of materials, solid-state physics, crystallography

• Some experience in 2D Van der Waals materials

• Experience in Machine Learning

• Molecular dynamics programming experience

• Python programming proficiency

• Experience with machine learning libraries such as PyTorch

• Some knowledge of phase field or finite element modeling is also desirable

• Ability to foster an environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion

• Strong verbal/written communication skills are essential

Application Materials Should Include:

• Cover letter stating motivation and interest in the position, citing experience relevant to the qualifications and including experience with, and commitment to, our Catholic Augustinian mission, our values, and our desire to be a more diverse, equitable and inclusive institution of higher learning.

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae including a list of publications.

• Names and contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position is subject to the successful completion of a criminal background check.

Vaccinations and Work Location 

This is an on-campus position as employees are essential in order to provide a fully on-campus, residential college experience for our students and the community.

The COVID-19 vaccine and booster for which an individual may be eligible are highly recommended for students, faculty and staff. Merrimack College does not require proof of COVID vaccination for enrollment, employment or to be a guest on our campus. 

Statement on Our Mission

Merrimack College is a Catholic Augustinian institution of higher education committed to building a culturally and racially diverse community. Our mission is to enlighten minds, engage hearts and empower lives and is inspired by our Catholic faith and the Augustinian tradition of seeking truth through inquiry and dialogue.

Merrimack College seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to Merrimack’s Catholic and Augustinian mission and values and advance our work in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion. We strongly encourage applications from members of underrepresented groups. All candidates should describe in their application previous experience related to equity, diversity, and inclusion, as well as how they will engage in fostering a culture that supports our Catholic and Augustinian mission and our values of diversity, equity and inclusion.

About Merrimack College

The only Catholic, Augustinian institution of higher education in New England, Merrimack College is a private, independent, coeducational institution with more than 4,000 undergraduate and 1,400 graduate students from 43 states and 42 countries. The College features more than 100 career-focused undergraduate, professional and graduate programs, all taught by exceptional faculty who are passionate about their subject and student success. The College has five schools: arts and sciences, engineering and computational sciences, nursing and health sciences, education and social policy and the Girard school of business. The College’s suburban 220-acre campus is just north of Boston in North Andover, Massachusetts. Merrimack is a Master’s Colleges and Universities/Larger Programs (M1) institution in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Merrimack is one of the fastest growing educational institutions in the country and has steadily climbed up in the U.S. News & World Report’s ranking of Best Colleges, ranking 33rd in the Regional Universities North category in 2024. Merrimack is a NCAA Division I athletic institution.

Merrimack College is an Equal Opportunity Employer.