Research Scientist III

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Job Description:

The Center for Nondestructive Evaluation (CNDE) at Iowa State University is seeking qualified candidates for a Research Scientist III position. CNDE partners closely with industrial and government sponsors who help guide research priorities and share results, ensuring that the work conducted directly addresses real-world challenges. With a long-standing history of providing cost-effective tools, solutions, and innovations for a variety of industrial sectors, this role will lead research in X-ray radiography, computed tomography (CT), and related imaging technologies. Candidates must bring extensive knowledge of experimental and modeling principles within these X-ray-based NDE domains.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and sustain a rigorous scholarly research program advancing X-ray and related nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods.
• Conduct modeling- and experimentation-based research, including materials characterization, while staying current on state-of-the-art NDE technologies.
• Lead and contribute to proposals for individual and collaborative sponsored research projects.
• Design, execute, and validate experimental and simulation studies, coordinating closely with sponsors and project teams.
• Perform exploratory investigations of novel X-ray methodologies based on sponsor needs.
• Prepare and deliver technical reports, presentations, and publications to meet contractual obligations.
• Publish research findings in refereed journals, conferences, proceedings, and other scholarly outlets.
• Engage with professional societies to advance visibility, collaboration, and professional service.
• Mentor and supervise students involved in sponsored research activities.
• Manage, maintain, and enhance CNDE’s X-ray laboratory equipment and facilities, including supporting funding efforts when needed.
• Ensure radiation safety compliance, maintain training procedures, and provide CT equipment support through fee-for-service when applicable.
• Support NDE education by teaching or assisting with courses involving X-ray components (e.g., MSE 4850 or similar).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S), coordinating training, documentation, and hazard assessments.
• Assist with laboratory safety oversight, including chemical waste coordination, SOP development, safety training, regulatory implementation, and corrective action.
• Collaborate with EH&S to conduct safety inspections and ensure full compliance across CNDE labs.

About the Center for Nondestructive Evaluation (CNDE)

CNDE at Iowa State University is a nationally recognized leader in nondestructive evaluation research, known for industry-driven innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world impact. Researchers at CNDE benefit from strong partnerships with government agencies and major industrial sponsors, access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities, and a supportive and highly collaborative work environment. Joining CNDE means becoming part of a mission-focused team dedicated to advancing NDE technologies, shaping the future of industry applications, and contributing to a culture of research excellence at a world-class university.

This position will be hired as a two-year term appointment (fixed term) with the opportunity for renewal based on funding.

Applications received by April 25, 2026, will receive guaranteed consideration; however, the position will remain open until it is filled.

Example Duties

• Develop, design and conduct one or more complex research projects of high complexity, review progress and evaluate results.

• Formulate research methods and suggest options for improving quality, identify potential problems, recommend and implement solutions, and collaborate in the development of new techniques.

• Act as a co-author and as a principal investigator.

• Recommend program direction.

• Train users in equipment operation and laboratory techniques, explain and demonstrate technology and equipment capabilities, operations, limitations and outcomes.

• Coordinate data collection and screening and verify the data.

• Analyze data, interpret and implement research methodology based on outcome of analysis.

• Supervise a small work group as appropriate.

Level Guidelines

• This is a senior-level position for someone possessing high-level professional and/or technical skills working independently under minimal supervision to support ISU’s mission and CNDE goals.

As such, this scientist is expected to:

• Apply senior-level professional knowledge and expertise to work requiring greater latitude

• Exercise judgment to resolve problems and determine appropriate action on a broad set of issue and problems. May provide recommendations regarding problems/issues outside the bounds of defined procedures and practices

• Respond to complicated inquiries, provide training, and provide direction to lower-level staff

• Provide supervision, as appropriate, for one to two other staff (i.e., lead a small work team)

• Lead projects for which well-defined practices and procedures may not exist

• Provide guidance to students

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Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Why Choose ISU?

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
 

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