The Materials and Manufacturing Group at ARI is seeking up to two undergraduate researchers for this summer. The researchers would work with Dr. Dan Krogstad on a new Air Force funded research project. The positions would be for 40 hours a week for the summer. It is possible that the positions could extend into the school year at ~10 hours per week.
The project involves developing materials and methods to produce 3D printed, ordered nanocomposites. Current self-assembled materials are limited because the ordering typically extends to a maximum of a few microns. To make macroscale ordered nanomaterials, other processing methods are needed. We are using direct ink writing to deposit micron sized beads of materials into macroscale structures. The first position will work to explore the variable space in the development of these new materials. The second position will focus on optimizing the direct ink writing process for these materials.
Position 1: Materials Development
Duties and Responsibilities
- Prepare new nanocomposite materials to determine the effects of variables on the materials structure and properties
- Perform polymers characterization on the developed materials including rheological testing of resins, mechanical tensile testing, DSC, SEM, DLS, and/or SAXS
- Effectively work in a team environment to solve research challenges
Preferred Qualifications
- Undergraduate student in materials science, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, chemistry, bioengineering or related engineering disciplines
- Basic understanding of polymer chemistry and materials properties
- Experimental research experience in polymers synthesis and/or characterization/testing
- Experience with polymers characterization equipment such as DMA, rheometer, DSC, SEM, DLS, and/or SAXS
Position 2: Direct Ink Writing Optimization
Duties and Responsibilities
- Determine the capabilities and limitations of the direct ink printer with respect to a range of ink properties
- Perform polymers characterization on the polymer inks and the printed materials including rheological testing of the resins, mechanical tensile testing of printed samples
- Effectively work in a team environment to solve research challenges
Preferred Qualifications
- Undergraduate student in materials science, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, industrial engineering, or related engineering disciplines
- Background using CAD programs such as AutoDesk Fusion 360
- Experimental research experience in polymer 3D printingExperience with polymer characterization equipment such as DMA, rheometer, and DSC
To apply for these positions, email your curriculum vitae (CV) to Dr. Dan Krogstad at dkrogsta@illinois.edu.
Please visit the Illinois ARI Website for more information.
