Research Assistant Professor - Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Summary

The Research Assistant Professor will contribute to the development and execution of applied research projects focused on fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites components and systems, sustainable and recyclable infrastructure materials, and advanced hybrid systems and advanced material development. This role integrates responsibilities in experimental testing, materials characterization, field implementation, and analytical modeling to support innovation in infrastructure. The research faculty member is expected to conduct independent and collaborative research, advise graduate students, and coordinate with academic, governmental, and industry stakeholders. In alignment with the mission of the Constructed Facilities Center (CFC), the research position emphasizes the transition of research outcomes into field-ready solutions, technical standards, and next-generation material technologies.

Key Responsibilities

The main responsibilities of a Research Assistant Professor include leading the development of practical solutions to engineering problems through research, lab and field-based, experimental validation, and technical analysis. The role includes generating external research funding, mentoring graduate students, coordinating with faculty and external collaborators, and contributing to the direction of sponsored research programs. Research Assistant Professors also present findings to technical and non-technical audiences, including industry partners, government agencies, and interdisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities include:

• Conducting independent and collaborative research on polymer composites, thermo-mechanical performance, environmental durability, and advanced manufacturing techniques (e.g., VARTM, compression molding, fire testing), with special understanding on polymer chemistry and wide range of polymer processing and composite manufacturing technologies.
• Generating externally sponsored research
• Developing experimental and computational models for structural components and infrastructure systems using tools such as ABAQUS, LS-DYNA, or MATLAB, while ensuring adherence to project timelines and funding requirements.
• Supervising laboratory work, coordinating with technicians and students and faculty to carry out research experiments and field evaluations.
• Performing data analysis, interpreting experimental results, and preparing technical reports, research publications, and engineering proposals for state and federal agencies and industry sponsors.
• Leading to proposal writing efforts and project management for sponsored research.
• Delivering oral and written presentations at conferences, technical workshops, and to industrial sponsors.
• Advising and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students on research projects, theses, dissertations and professional development.
• Coordinating with research collaborators, contractors, and agency personnel to ensure smooth execution of technical tasks and deliverables.
• Assisting in the development of guidelines, specifications, or design provisions based on research outcomes (e.g., updates to AASHTO or ASTM standards).
• Developing new courses and participating in curriculum enrichment and engaging with academic and industry partners to translate research into practical applications.
• Managing project resources, including materials, equipment, personnel time, and travel budgets, in accordance with WVU procedures.
• Supporting the mission of WVU-CFC through involvement in proposal reviews, technical consulting, and educational outreach initiatives.

Working Conditions

The role involves a combination of laboratory research, field installations and data collection, and office-based analytical work. Occasional travel may be required to attend conferences, project sites, and sponsor meetings. The position operates within an academic research environment with expectations for scholarly productivity and active contribution to departmental and university initiatives.

Required Qualifications and Skills

A successful candidate must hold a Ph.D. in Mechanical, Chemical and/or Structural Engineering with a formal background in Polymer Engineering and Materials Sciences with demonstrated integration of structural mechanics and advanced material processing. A minimum of four years of post-graduate research experience is required, with a proven record of leading sponsored projects in partnership with federal and industrial agencies. Candidates must have direct hands-on expertise in fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites manufacturing, testing and evaluation.

Proficiency in multiscale finite element modeling and structural simulation is required, particularly using ABAQUS, LS-DYNA, Hyper-mesh, and MATLAB. Applicants must have conducted extensive mechanical testing including tension, bending, compression, puncture, fatigue, and dynamic impact on composite and hybrid structural systems. Demonstrated experience in mentoring graduate students at both master's and doctoral levels is essential.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, visit https://careers.wvu.edu/career-opportunities. Applicants must submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for at least three professional references. Only candidates who submit complete documentation will be considered in the review process. For further information, please contact Dr. Hota GangaRao, Wadsworth Professor and Director of Constructed Facilities Center at Hota.Gangarao@mail.wvu.edu. You may also visit the CEE website at: https://cee.statler.wvu.edu/.

About WVU

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

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Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.