Research Scientist III

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

1d

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated experience in analytical and numerical modeling of complex X-ray propagation in materials, for a variety of NDE applications including imaging and materials characterization
• Demonstrated experience with X-ray radiography system hardware, including X-ray sources, computed tomography, photon counting detectors, etc.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of both experimental and theoretical (modeling) X-ray radiography and computed tomography (CT), including X-ray imaging
• High working knowledge and experience with various relevant X-ray and tomography systems
• M.S. degree (or higher) in nuclear engineering or a closely related field.

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.

Benefits

• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level