Postdoctoral Research Associate

Posting Information

Posting Information

Position Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Job Posting Number 2026109NTL Job Location San Marcos College/Division College of Science and Engineering Department/School Ingram School of Engineering Position Description

Texas State University is a doctoral-granting institution with high research activity, dedicated to advancing innovation and expanding the frontiers of research. Our Ultrawide Bandgap Semiconductor (UWBG) lab focuses on developing next-generation UWBG materials and process technologies based on diamond, III-nitrides, and GaO for high-power, high-frequency, and extreme-environment electronics. Our research integrates advanced thin-film growth, laser-based processing, doping strategies, and interface engineering to enable energy-efficient, radiation-hardened, and thermally robust electronic systems, with applications spanning power electronics, space systems, and national defense technologies.

Position Overview:

Under the Nathinal Science Foundation and Department of Defense grants, we are seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our UWBG Semiconductor Lab. The successful candidate will work on cutting-edge research projects focused on ultrawide bandgap materials (e.g., diamond, III-nitrides, and GaO), advancing next-generation electronic devices through innovations in thin film epitaxy, doping, interface engineering, and laser-based processing to achieve superior performance, thermal management, and energy efficiency in high-power and high-frequency applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research on ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductor materials (e.g., diamond, III-nitrides, GaO), focusing on heteroepitaxial growth, doping, defect engineering, and thermal management.
• Investigate thermal transport, interface engineering, and heat dissipation strategies in high-power and high-frequency electronic devices through experimental and modeling approaches.
• Develop and optimize thin-film growth and processing techniques (e.g., CVD, PLD, sputtering, laser annealing) for next-generation semiconductor devices.
• Perform primarily experimental research, with a smaller component involving materials modeling and atomistic simulations to support and interpret experimental results.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team spanning materials science, electrical engineering, and device physics.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present at leading academic and industry conferences.
• Assist the PI in research proposal development for federal funding agencies and mentor graduate and undergraduate students and support their research and professional development.

This position is subject to the availability of funds.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field, completed within the last 2 years or expected within the next 3 months.
• Strong background in semiconductor materials growth physics and heterointerface engineering, particularly in UWBG materials (e.g., diamond, III-nitrides, GaO) or related areas.
• Knowledge of thin-film growth & characterization, semiconductor processing, and materials characterization techniques (e.g., CVD, PLD, MBE, laser processing, structural/electrical/optical/thermal characterization).
• Modeling, Programming and data analysis skills using tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, Python, or similar scientific computing platforms.
• Hands-on experimental experience in laboratory settings, including instrumentation, materials processing/characterization, and lab safety components.
• Familiarity with materials modeling or atomistic simulation methods (e.g., molecular dynamics, DFT) is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment with strong written and oral communication skills in English.
• Proven record of research productivity, evidenced by publications in reputable journals and conference proceedings.
• Strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and a commitment to high-quality research and career growth.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong background in semiconductor device fabrication, thin-film growth, and materials characterization, particularly for ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) materials such as diamond, III-nitrides, and GaO.
• Familiarity with materials modeling or atomistic simulations (e.g., molecular dynamics, DFT) to complement experimental work.
• Experience with laser-based processing, interface engineering, or thermal management in high-power electronic devices.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design and execute research projects, analyze results, and publish in high-impact journals.

Application Procedures

Only applications submitted through the Texas State university website will be accepted and considered, https://jobs.hr.txstate.edu/postings/56774.

To ensure full consideration, please submit the following by May 15, 2026. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified:

• A cover letter detailing their research interests and relevant experience.
• A current curriculum vitae (CV).
• A statement of research plan/interest
• Unofficial Transcripts (all in one document).
• Copies of up to three representative publications.

The selected candidate will need to provide official transcripts from all degree-granting universities.

Type of Position Temporary Full-Time or Part-Time Proposed Start Date Posting Date 04/24/2026 Review Date 05/15/2026 Close Date Open Until Filled? Yes Legal Notices

Texas State University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal or state law in employment, educational programs, and activities and admissions.

Employment with Texas State University is contingent upon the outcome of record checks and verifications including, but not limited to, criminal history, driving records, education records, employment verifications, reference checks, and employment eligibility verifications.

This position may conduct research on critical infrastructure depending on the research focus of a hire. Consistent with the requirements of the State of Texas, individuals conducting research on critical infrastructure will be subject to pre-employment, and then subsequent routine background checks/cybersecurity screenings. Employment will at all times be contingent upon the successful completion of these screenings in accordance with State and University requirements.

Reasonable Accommodation

If you experience accessibility issues or require alternative formatting during the application process due to a disability or underlying condition, we request that you contact Talent Acquisition for assistance. A representative from Talent Acquisition will respond to you as soon as possible.

Record Checks and Verifications

Employment with Texas State University is contingent upon the outcome of record checks and verifications including, but not limited to, criminal history, driving records, education records, employment verifications, reference checks, and employment eligibility verifications.

Eligibility for Employment

In accordance with federal law, all new employees must complete the Form I-9 and provide acceptable documentation verifying their identity and authorization to work in the United States. Texas State University participates in E-Verify, and employment is contingent upon the successful verification of work authorization. Employees are required to maintain valid work authorization to satisfy the conditions of Form I9 at all times during their employment and the university makes no implicit or explicit promises to financially support visa or permanent residency applications.

Why Work at Texas State?

Texas State University is a large, student-centered public research institution serving more than 40,000 students across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in San Marcos and Round Rock. Classified as a Carnegie Doctoral University with High Research Activity (R2), TXST is actively advancing its ambitious Run to R1 strategy, demonstrating sustained growth in research activity, doctoral education, and scholarly impact.

Faculty at TXST join a vibrant academic community of over 5,000 faculty and staff committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service. The university offers a collaborative, supportive environment, and interdisciplinary scholarship. Outstanding faculty are drawn to TXST for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact-advancing research, mentoring a growing student body, and helping shape the future of a rapidly growing research university.

Quick Link https://jobs.hr.txstate.edu/postings/56774 Special Instructions Summary

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research Interests
• Examples of Recent Publications
• Examples of Recent Publications #2
• Examples of Recent Publications #3
• Unofficial Transcripts (all in one document)

Optional Documents

• DD 214/DD1300
• Veteran's Preference
• Licensure
• Certifications

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• • Do you have a Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or closely related discipline?

• Yes, I have earned a Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or closely related discipline.

• Yes, ABD with anticipated completion prior to start date.

• No.

• • Are you currently eligible to work in the United States of America?

• Yes.

• No.

• • Please Specify: (enter "NA" if not applicable)

(Open Ended Question)

• • How did you hear about this employment opportunity?

• The Chronicle of Higher Education

• InsideHigherEd.com

• HigherEdJobs.com

• Diverse Issues in Higher Education

• InsightintoDiversity.com

• Texas Workforce Commission-Work in Texas

• Colleague, friend, and/or personal referral

• Other (Please Specify in follow up question below)

• • Official transcripts are required for all degrees that provide evidence of a faculty member's credentials and qualifications. Foreign/International transcripts for all degrees must undergo a credentialing evaluation for U.S. equivalency by an organization that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). If selected for hire, I will provide official transcripts and/or evaluations for all degrees earned.

• Yes

• No